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, 2023)
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.

The Role of Cognition as a Mediator for Narcissism and Trait Aggression as Predictors of Aggressive Driving Behavior - Van, Hou Wai (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The Role and Influence of External Stakeholders on the Corporate Governance Practices of Gaming Companies in Macao - Limbo, Lem Anne Agnas (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Road to Service Export Diversification: Gambling and Convention in Macao - Lei, Weng Chi (Economics and Finance Readings: Selected Papers from Asia-Pacific Conference on Economics & Finance, 2019, 2020)
This book is a compilation of the best papers presented at the APEF 2019 conference which was held on 25th and 26th July 2019 at the Grand Copthorne Waterfront in Singapore. With a great number of submissions, it presents the latest research findings in economics and finance and discusses relevant issues in today's world. The book is a useful resource for readers who want access to economics, finance and business research focusing on the Asia-Pacific region.

The Relationship Between Work-Life-Balance and Burnout: Effect of Gender and Sector of Activity - Vai, Han Kuoc (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph

The Relationship Between Stress and Emotion Regulation with Students’ Academic Achievement - Cheong, Sin Teng (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The relationship between social support and death anxiety among elderly living alone in Macao - Lo, Pou Leng (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PSYCHOPATHOLOGY AND RESILIENCE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN MACAO - Chan, Ngan Ieng (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
School-age children and adolescents face several psychological conditions frequently associated with negative consequences on behavioral and mental problems. Their level of mental resilience may affect their responses to academic or interpersonal issues and coping with challenges, which in turn affects their mental health. This study aims to characterize the current status of the psychopathology and resilience of secondary students and to analyze the relationship between psychopathology and resilience in a sample of 80 girls aged 12–18 was selected by cluster sampling from one private secondary school with six grades in Macao. In this study, we used the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) to assess behavioral and emotional problems and the Resilience Scale for Chinese Adolescents to assess resilience. A total of 78 valid questionnaires were obtained for CBCL, 78 for TRF, 80 for YSR, and 77 for Resilience Scale and data were analyzed by using SPSS. The results reveal that clinical prevalence of Total Problems (YSR, 27.5% > CBCL, 19.2% > TRF, 15.4%) and Internalizing Problems (YSR, 22.5% > CBCL, 17.9% > TRF, 11.5%) from the perspective of adolescents was higher than that from the perspectives of parents and teachers. Senior students exhibited higher frequency on the borderline clinical range than Junior students. (χ2(2, N=80) =14.56, p<.001). The average score of resilience is 3.24±0.51, which is above the middle level. Regarding the YSR scale and Resilience scale, we found that the score of Affect Control is significantly negatively correlated with the score of Internalizing Problems (r = -.354, p<.01). Family Support is also significantly negatively correlated with the score of Internalizing Problems (r = -.302, p<.01). Good affect control and family support can reduce various emotional and behavioral problems. The results of the study found the resilience level can negatively affect internalizing problem behaviors and externalizing problem behaviors. The results are promising and can give clues for preventing and promoting measures regarding mental health issues to both family and school education contexts, as creating a sustainable development strategy of improving adolescents’ mental resilience quality
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph; psychopathology; resilience; secondary students

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PARENTING STYLES, ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AND BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS OF PRIMARY STUDENTS IN MACAO - Tang, I. Sam (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
"Parenting styles may have various effects on children’s development and educational outcomes, particularly a relationship with behavioral problems and academic achievement. This study examines the relationship of between parenting styles, behavioral problems and academic achievement. A cross-sectional and questionnaire-design (Parenting Style Scale (Saunders et al., 2013); Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (Goodman & Goodman, 2009; Goodman, 1999; Goodman, 1997)) study was used with a sample total of 98 parents with the eldest child of the family aged between six to twelve. Results of the findings are mainly inconsistent with the majority of literature. Indulgent and authoritative parenting are the predominant parenting styles, yet parenting styles does not relate to academic achievement. On the other hand, the correlation between behavioral problems, specifically prosocial behaviors and academic achievement are moderate. Furthermore, there is no difference between the type of behavioral problems according to gender. In further studies, a larger sample size, teachers and students as informants, and the inclusion of the analysis of other factors that could be influencing parenting styles, behavioral problems and academic achievement are suggested to be considered. "
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

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 Relationship Between Burnout and Work Engagement in the Differentiated Job Demands-Resources Model: A Study of Hospitality Industry - Lei, Chi Hang (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
The Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model is one of the most influential models for studying burnout and work engagement. However, the relationship between job demands and work engagement yields inconsistent results in empirical research. This study adopted the JD-R model as the theoretical base, together with the differentiated job demands approach, to examine the inconsistent relationship between job demands (i.e., emotional labor) and work engagement. Additionally, the newly proposed job resource (i.e., transformational leadership) and its relationship between burnout and work engagement were examined. Moreover, the moderating role of personal resources (i.e., emotional intelligence) was tested. Data were collected from employees working in the hospitality industry. The results revealed that (1) surface acting correlated positively with emotional exhaustion and cynicism; (2) deep acting was positively correlated with professional efficacy, cognitive, emotional, and physical work engagement; (3) the transformational leadership style negatively predicted emotional exhaustion and cynicism, while positively predicting professional efficacy, cognitive, emotional, and physical work engagement; (4) emotional intelligence moderated the relationship between deep acting, professional efficacy, and emotional work engagement; and (5) the mediation role of burnout was found in the current study
Keywords: Burnout; Job Demands-Resources Approach; Thesis and Dissertations PhD in Psychology (D-PSY); University of Saint Joseph; Work Engagement

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 POWER OF SCENT MARKETING: INFLUENCING CONSUMERS TO PURCHASE - Fong, Un I. (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
Examining consumer perceptions of scent marketing in Macau's retail setting is the goal of this study. The study focuses on the following two primary uses of scent marketing in retail environments: subliminal application and application as a component of branding strategy. Qualitative research methodology is used. A total of ten consumer interviews produced the data. The findings show that consumers are in favor of scent marketing's use in retail settings. The use of scent marketing as a tool for establishing brands is preferred, and consumers find this approach to scent marketing to be more acceptable than its subliminal application. Although consumers believe that other factors, such as price, are typically more significant than scent when making purchases, the use of subliminal scents was not always evaluated negatively. Unless occasionally when making an unplanned purchase, consumers do not think that a subliminal scent can significantly impact their purchasing behavior
Keywords: Consumer behavior; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph; branding; consumer opinion; marketing strategy; scent marketing; subliminal advertising

The Political and Economic Dependence of the Press in Macao under Portuguese and Chinese Rule: Continuity and Change - Costa-Ribeiro, Nelson; Simões, José Manuel (Communication & Society, 2021)
The article analyses the media system in Macao, a special administrative region of China that transitioned from Portuguese to Chinese sovereignty in 1999, becoming one of cities in the world with the largest number of published newspapers per capita. Combining historical research with the analysis of contemporary empirical data collected through interviews with journalists working on the ground, the research demonstrates how there is a long tradition of state control that goes back to the colonial era and that has assumed different forms, ranging from outright censorship to physical intimidation of journalists and economic dependence on the government. Limitations and control strategies imposed on news reporting during the Portuguese administration continue to be practiced today by the Chinese authorities. Even so, journalists operating on the Macao media market tend to overstate the level of freedom they are given, which can be attributed to media outlets being economically dependent on the state. Nevertheless, the level of freedom attributed to the press is today higher than it had been during the colonial period with some critical voices being allowed to reach the media. This needs to be understood in the context of what has been defined as the Chinese safety valve strategy.
Keywords: Censorship; Journalism Practice; Media Systems; Press Freedom; Press Subsidies

The Perception of Skirt Wearing and Masculinity in Contemporary Society: A Case Study in São Paulo, Brazil and Shanghai, China - Chan, Jose Manuel Enesoe (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

The pedagogical role of ethics and deontology for future professionals of communication and media: How to develop and nourish virtues - Simões, José Manuel (IV Jornadas Innovación Educativa en Comunicación y Alfabetización Mediática, 2022)
- Flipped classroom metodologiak eskaintzen dituen abantaila pedagogikoak (Ander Goikoetxea Pérez, Hannot Mintegia Beaskoa). - Conocimiento de la actualidad informativa a partir de la participación del alumnado que ejerce de periodista y lector crítico (María del Mar Rodríguez González, Iñigo Marauri Castillo, Guillermo Gurrutxaga Rekongo). - El papel del procesamiento dual de la información en la discriminación de noticias falsas (José Manuel Meza Cano, Cinthia Aranda-Solís, Blanca Olalde López de Arechavaleta, Santiago Palacios Navarro). - No trespassing: Arau, traba eta mugen bidezko metodologia sortzaile bat kazetaritza gradurako (Hannot Mintegia Beaskoa, Ander Goikoetxea Pérez). - Learning digital journalism: Analysing web media in comparative perspective to learn what is quality in digital communication (Javier Díaz-Noci). - El sistema híbrido vehículo de comunicación educativa (Antonio Vaquerizo Mariscal). - The pedagogical role of ethics and deontology for future professionals of communication and media: How to develop and nourish virtues (José Manuel Simões). - Desgaitasuna duten pertsonen Komunikazio ikasketetako prestakuntzari buruzko gogoetak (Terese Mendiguren, Jesús Ángel Pérez Dasilva, Koldobika Meso Ayerdi, Simón Peña, Ainara Larrondo, María Ganzabal). - Teaching Communication (and Journalism) History from Social History Theory: Some proposals (Javier Díaz-Noci).

The (non) standardized classroom - the analysis of three different cultures in the higher education systems - Angola, Brazil and Macau SAR, China - Lobo Marques (Disentangled Vision on Higher Education: Preparing the Generation Next, 2023)
This book offers an objective and dispassionate analysis of modern educational architecture allowing us to notice gaps. The fundamental question addressed is whether our education system will embrace knowledge-based society and have the foresight to better prepare future generations. If educators around the world step back for a moment, it is not difficult to notice that unanswered questions about education are looming everywhere. The existent academic literature on education is abundant and embracing. In consequence, one can ask why is this book necessary? Indeed, this book is the result of senior university professors sharing their learnings and anticipating the pivotal issues facing all education professionals. According to the United Nations, by 2050, 68% of the world’s population will be living in urban areas. This fact cannot be ignored as it is one of the drivers of the profile of the future students. The reasons to organize this publication are many, but among them three stand out which also function as the driving forces behind this project: (1) University professors teach future generations based on models grounded on knowledge advanced by past experiences; (2) The decisive requirement to understand the needs of the new generations of university millennial students; and (3) What are the critical challenges of global societies? "This book problematizes the issues concerning education, and its main contribution is to answer the need to rethink education, face contemporary challenges, and reorganize the way public policies address education. It critically analyses the challenges of global societies in a decentralized perspective, not only reflecting a western perspective of education and knowledge production. The project's originality comes from the contemporaneity of the topics covered, from the interdisciplinary perspective, and from the specific attention given to trends around education." —Cátia Miriam Costa, Researcher and Invited Assistant Professor, Centre for International Studies, Perfil Ciência

"The Never-Ending Task": A case study on Performing Arts with People with Intellectual Disabilities in Macau - Carol, Wong Weng Si (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)

THE MODERATING EFFECTS OF POWER DISTANCE ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PERCEPTIONS OF ORGANISATIONAL POLITICS AND ORGANISATIONAL JUSTICE - Kong, Fion Ming Ying (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
The aim of this research is to investigate how power distance orientation effects the relationship between perceptions of organisational politics and perceptions of organisational justice. A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted on 172 full time workers in Macau, where respondents self-responded to questionnaires that were translated back-to-back into Chinese in order to accommodate the populations native language. This study found that power distance was contrary to our initial hypothesis of high-power distance equals to high politics and low justice. It was found that high power distance in facts equates to lower political perceptions and higher justice perceptions. This study contributes to understanding power distance in Macau as it is not noted in the Hofstede cultural dimensions. We also learned that having a longer distance between a position of power can contribute to less political activity and more sense of justice for the employees
Keywords: Organisational Justice; Organisational Politics; Power Distance; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph

The Moderating Effect of Job Alternatives Perceptions in the Relationship Between Burnout and Turnover: A Study During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Macao - Fong, Sut Cheng (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph

The Moderating Effect of Food Neophilia on Consumers’ Intention to Use Insects as Food - Lampo, Alessandro; Sun, Hou Tong (18th INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE AGBRP - Leading Sustainability Transitions: Risk, Collaboration, and Technology, 2024)
In a world where sustainable food choices are becoming increasingly important, this study explores the connection between food neophilia — the desire to experiment with new foods — and people's willingness to include insects in their diets. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), our research delves into how neophilia (NP) moderates respondents’ attitude (ATT), social norms (SN), and perceived behavioral control (PBC) concerning the adoption of insects as a food source. The analysis draws from 160 self-administered surveys and employs structural equation modeling. Conducted in the context of Macau SAR (China), our study reveals the pivotal role that neophilia plays in shaping consumer attitudes and intentions. Notably, respondents generally expressed a willingness to explore novel culinary experiences. A positive moderating effect of neophilia on attitudes toward insect consumption is observed, suggesting that individuals with higher neophilia scores are more inclined to hold favorable intentions regarding insects as food. However, neophilia's influence on moderating SN and PBC exhibits contrasting effects, implying that a strong inclination for food neophilia may not necessarily leadto increased social pressure or perceived control in adopting insect-based diets. In light of these findings, this study recommends that practitioners and policymakers promote insect consumptionas an innovative and adventurous means of achieving sustainable nutrition. While the primary focus is on the impact of food neophilia on people's intention to consume insects as food, the study underscores the urgent need for diversified and sustainable dietary choices to address escalating environmental concerns and secure a resilient food supply for future generations.

The Metaxological Philosophy of Dialogue with Buddhism - Duraj, Jaroslaw (The Wheel & The Cross: An Anthology by Jesuits & Friends on Buddhism and Dialogue, 2021)

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)

The Mediation Effect of Organisational Commitment on Job Autonomy and Turnover Intentions - Cheong, Lai Ieng (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph

The Mediating Role of Empathy on the Impact of Perceived Parenting Styles on Prosocial Behaviors of Adults - Hoi, Mei Pui (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The Media in São Tomé and Príncipe and Its Contribution to the Country Development - Simoes, José Manuel (China, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique and São Tomé and Príncipe – From sporadic bilateral exchanges to a comprehensive multilateral platform, 2022)

THE MARKET AS SOCIAL LANDSCAPE IN MACAU - Ma, Jianjun (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Markets in Macau are not merely places for commercial retail, they are also social spaces. As a centre of communal life, markets are of great significance to the lives of Macau residents. However, with the rise of supermarkets and online shopping, the role of traditional markets has been reduced. At the same time, the messy and unkempt nature of traditional markets has become a negative factor of their social viability. The result has been a downward spiral of poor operation, decline in rental yield and loss of customers. Can the markets be revitalized for Macau residents? Can the social attributes of markets be reactivated? How can the experience of markets be re-imagined for different user groups? The present thesis is organized into 5 parts. The first part deals with the background of research. It also describes the purpose and significance of the research and discusses research methodology. The second part details market pressures in Macau, including insufficient land and space resources, poor sanitary environment, and tourism promotion needs. The third part examines the idea of “walkable cities” in terms of four concerns—usefulness, safety, comfort, and spatial interest—and in terms of specific case studies. The fourth part concerns a design project for a market at ZONE A in Macau. The thesis details the needs of a market in this zone and considers them in the light of the idea of walkable cities. Overall, this thesis attempts to contribute to public discussion of the future of markets in Macau in terms of service, socialisation and promotion
Keywords: Markets in Macau; Social Spaces; Theses and Dissertations Master of Architecture (MARCH); University of Saint Joseph; Walkable Cities

The Lotus Network – Masterplan and Design Guidelines for Iao Hon and Toi San Community Public Spaces (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)

THE LIFE DILEMMA AND ADJUSTMENT OF PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN MACAO =: 澳門自閉症類群障礙幼童的家長生活困境與調適 - Ieong, I. Teng (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph; 困境; 特殊教育; 自閉症兒童家長; 調適

The international recruitment obstacle race in Macau - Morrison, Keith (Macau Business, 2023)
Macau, Macau Business, MAG, MB, MB Featured, Opinion | Macau’s development of international and tertiary sector industries is the watchword for its long-overdue diversification. Is Macau ready for this?

The international law against tax avoidance: “status quo” and perspectives for development of the regime - Wong, Chang Man (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
This dissertation examines the critical need to continuously update the international tax law against tax avoidance: “status quo” and perspectives for development of the current regime. Employing a doctrinal methodological approach, the research first seeks to uncover the most common forms of international tax avoidance through an extensive literature review. This crucial step provides invaluable insights into the diverse strategies and mechanisms utilized by individuals and businesses to circumvent taxation on a global scale. The dissertation then proceeds to examine how current international tax law addresses the identified forms of tax avoidance. This implies a multi-faceted analysis, including an identification of the relevant international norms and treaties, and an exploration of the main sources of international tax law and their practical application. Recognizing the dynamic nature of the global tax landscape, the dissertation also provides perspectives for the future development of international tax law to better address the challenge of tax avoidance. By thoroughly examining the strengths and limitations of the current international tax law regime, the dissertation offers recommendations for potential improvements to the application of international tax avoidance conventions. The findings of this comprehensive study contribute to the broader understanding of international tax avoidance and its regulation within the framework of international law. The research questions and objectives serve as a guiding framework, enabling a thorough analysis that can inform practitioners, and scholars engaged in the ongoing discourse surrounding global taxation and its implications for economic fairness and transparency
Keywords: Global taxation; International norms and treaties for tax; International tax avoidance; International tax law against tax avoidance; Limitation and development of current international tax law regime; Status quo; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Lusophone and International Public Law(MLIPL); University of Saint Joseph

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

The Influence of Strengths-Based Intervention to Students’ Engagement and Self-Efficacy in Macau - Jr. Tabilas, Faustino T. (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The Influence of Society on the Behavioral Intention to Use a Technology: Evidence from the Battery Electric Vehicles Domain - Lampo, Alessandro; Silva, Susana C. (European Marketing Academy, 2021)
Despite the general good intentions towards the environment, individuals tend to adopt traditional internal combustion vehicles. Drawing from technology research, this study focuses on the impact of society - in the form of subjective norm and image – on the behavioral intention to adopt a technology. More precisely, this study seeks to explore to which extent societal influences drive the behavioral intention to adopt battery electric vehicles (BEV) technology. A self-administered survey was used for this purpose. The analysis of the data from a sample of 111 respondents showed significant relationships between the predictors and the target behavioral outcome. The study also revealed that subjective norm and image are particularly significant factors for the segment of BEV owners. The findings suggest that marketers and practitioners incorporate social elements into their product communication strategies in order to encourage the uptake of environmentally-sound technologies.

The Influence of Society on the Behavioral Intention to Use a Technology: Evidence from the Battery Electric Vehicles Domain - Lampo, Alessandro; Silva, Susana C.; Duarte, Paulo (International Journal of Business Excellence, 2022)

The Influence of Online Payment Methods on Consumers’ Online Purchase Behavior: The Case of Young People in Macau - Martins, Maria Cordes Aniceto (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Influence of Official Digital Infographics in Macao during the COVID-19 Pandemic - Ho, Weng In (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

The Indirect Effect of Job Insecurity and COVID-19 Induced Stress on Mental Health through the Mediating Effect of Burnouts and the Moderating Effect of Perceived Social Support among Macau Gaming Employees - Hoi, Lok (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

THE IMPORTANCE OF VISUAL ELEMENTS IN BRAND COMMUNICATION IN MACAU CASE STUDY: DESIGN OF CULTURAL AND CREATIVE PRODUCTS - Long, On Nei (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
The research highlights the significance of souvenirs in contributing to the preservation of cultural heritage and communicating cultural messages to tourists. However, a need for more study exists on the visual elements and brand communication employed in designing cultural and creative products that represent local culture. This research aims to investigate the cultural and creative products industry's status and identify the essential visual elements for designing Macau's cultural and creative products. The study also seeks to understand the visual elements and communication strategies that significantly influence product design and brand communication while capturing the image and style of Macau. The research collected 265 valid questionnaires from online participants and interviewed four designers from small local artist brands. The analysis revealed that local consumers prefer products from small local artist brands, but there needs to be a higher brand awareness. Respondents suggested that utilising social media platforms would effectively increase brand awareness and engage with consumers. Furthermore, it was found that Macau's cultural and creative products can integrate various local elements and design styles to represent its unique style. These visual elements are deemed adequate for cultural and creative product design. This research contributes to the creative and tourism industries by providing designers and scholars with insights and references to better comprehend visual and brand communication for local small artist brands
Keywords: Brand Communication; Cultural and Creative Products; Images of Macau; Souvenirs; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

The Importance of Readiness for Change, a Leadership Perspective Based on a Case Study in Macau, SAR China - Marques, João; Reis, Joana; Phillips, Jenny O. L.; Diakite, Ansoumane (Journal of Advanced Management Science, 2020)

The Impacts of Burnout and Work Engagement on Performance: a Study of a Surveillance Team - Chang, Pou I. (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

THE IMPACT OF TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE IN MACAU'S LAND TRANSPORT SECTOR: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF EMPLOYEE WORK ENGAGEMENT - Cai, Shi Xin (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Public transportation is an important component of urban infrastructure and has a significant impact on the convenience and well-being of citizens. In Macau, with rapid economic development and urbanization, an efficient land transport system is essential to support sustainable development. Previous research has primarily focused on the sustainable development of the transportation sector in Macau, with little attention given to studies concerning employees. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the impact of transformational leadership on employee work performance in the land transportation sector in Macau, with a particular focus on the mediating role of employee work engagement. Through a quantitative research methodology, this study utilized an online questionnaire to collect data from 194 employees from the bus and LRT sectors in order to achieve the research objectives. Convenience sampling and snowball sampling methods were used in this study to analyze the data through SPSS software to assess the relationship between transformational leadership, employee work engagement and employee performance. The findings reveal that there is a significant positive relationship between transformational leadership and employee performance, as well as a significant positive relationship between transformational leadership and employee work engagement. In addition, employee work engagement played a partial mediating role between transformational leadership and employee performance. The findings suggest that transformational leadership not only directly enhances employee performance, but also indirectly enhances employee performance by increasing employee work engagement. These insights have important practical implications, indicating that adopting transformational leadership behaviors can effectively enhance employee engagement and performance, thereby improving organizational effectiveness. Specifically, managers in Macau's transportation sector should pay attention to and cultivate transformational leadership behaviors in order to enhance employee work engagement and performance, and thus achieve higher organizational effectiveness and building a strong team
Keywords: Employee Work Engagement; Employee Work Performance; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); Transformational Leadership; University of Saint Joseph

The Impact of Macau Teaching Professionalism to Kindergarten teachers' Occupational Identity and Competency: A Study on In-service Teachers' Perception = 澳門教師專業化對幼兒教師職業身份認同和勝任感的影響：來自在職教師的看法 - 張翟 (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

The Impact of Father-Adolescent Relationship on Child Development in Macao - Lao, Pak Lun (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The Impact of E-Commerce in Local Flower Consumers in Macao: Online Stores vs Physical Stores - Guerreiro, Diana Macedo (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

The Impact and Attitude of Urban Renewal on Citizen Residents in Macau - Si Cheng Iok (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Social Work (MSW); University of Saint Joseph

The Idea of the Exemplary Salesian in the Twelve Recorded Dreams of St. John Bosco: A Spiritual and Psychological Consideration - Ho, Ka Fai (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
This dissertation is an attempt to analyze the twelve selected dreams written or reviewed by St. John Bosco in order to present the notion of an exemplary Salesian. These dreams inspired Don Bosco’s vocation, charism, and dealing with his life’s contingencies and correlate with his pastoral ministry for youth under the social-ecclesiastical context of the nineteenth century. The methodology for this research consists of two approaches: an investigation of their spiritual theology, and Morton T. Kelsey’s approach. In the first part, five dimensions of spiritual theology are explored: (1) the conformity to the truth, (2) the humility and the docility to the Divine will, (3) the discretion and the gravity of seeking the glory of God, (4) the liberty of Spirit with joy, and (5) the guidance of the Spirit. In the latter part, three issues inspired by Kelsey are explored: (1) the personal issue, including the exploration of thought and feeling; (2) the correlation between the dream content and the reality, including images and archetypal symbols associated with experience and memory; (3) the spiritual issue, including one’s openness to God and relation with Him. Through this present research, a model of an exemplary Salesian has been conceptualized, which considers three virtues: health, wisdom, and sanctity. This present study is expected to be beneficial to enhance the faithful’s spirituality. Moreover it is hoped it will provide a healthy stimulus for Salesians to seek to live an excellent Salesian religious life, and to the faithful be devoted Christians in this world as well for the sake of glorifying the Divine mercy
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations PhD in Religious Studies (D-RS); University of Saint Joseph

The History of Macau’s Portuguese Radio Case study of the first thirty episodes of the programme Frequência Académica - Vidinha, Margarida Sajara (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

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

The Genesis of a New Year | Macau Business - Morrison, Keith (Macau Business, 2021)

The Future of Cosmetics Marketing Strategy: An Exploratory Study into How Neuromarketing Can Deepen its Understanding - Neto, Andreia Da Conceição (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The future of Cosmetics Advertisement Strategy: A Neuromarketing Study using Electrodermal Activity (EDA) as a measure of Emotional Arousal - Neto, Andreia; Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre (Association for Computing Machinery, 2022)
Neuromarketing lies at the intersection of three main disciplines: psychology, neuroscience, and marketing, and it has been a successful neuroscientific approach for the study of real-life choices such as consumer behavior [1]. A current gap in the cosmetics field is the lack of published research studies, considering the marketing investment done yearly in this category. With the rapid economic expansion and the rise of social media in China, consumers' interest in beauty is growing. Even though the Chinese cosmetics sector is rapidly expanding, no studies have been done with Chinese consumers. This study aims to employ the same approach as previously done in consumer neuroscience studies to evaluate cosmetic brands' marketing strategy to understand better if immediate emotional responses can be measured using Electrodermal Activity (EDA). Here, we focus on cosmetics products advertisement as a model to understand consumer preference formation and choice. Eighteen Chinese female consumers were recruited between 19 and 37 years old. From the results obtained, it was understood that none of the participants have voted for the product advertisement for which they showed higher emotional arousal. However, it appears that the participants' preference is for the products for which the brand awareness is stronger since the product advertisements with more votes are the ones for the Korean brand used. The product advertisements with Asian faces were the ones with more votes, suggesting that Asian faces have engaged consumer preference. However, the product advertisements for the Brazilian brands, unknown to the Chinese public, were the ones with fewer votes, although, those product advertisements were the ones with more emotional arousal per minute. Those advertisements were also those with non-Asian faces, suggesting that this feature influenced voting decisions. From this study, it has been observed that Electrodermal Activity is a measure of emotional arousal that by itself cannot be translated into consumer engagement. Therefore, it is also proposed to evaluate brand awareness in future studies related to product advertisements. The physical features of the people included in the advertisements is also suggested to be further evaluated in future studies since a different cultural background seems to influence the consumers' engagement. Furthermore, using EDA to complement other neurophysiological tools like facial expression analysis is also suggested for future studies to have evidence about the nature of the emotions raised.
Keywords: advertisement; consumer behavior; consumer neurosciences; cosmetics; marketing; neuromarketing

The Fire “Once Kindled on Moriah”: Wojtyła and Newman on the Conditions for the Proposal of Christ - Morgan, Stephen (Newman Studies Journal, 2022)

The Financial Valuation of Waste Management, Inc: Daniela Wai Ka, Leong - Leong, Wai Ka (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Valuation of Walmart Inc - Lestro, Gonçalo Nuno das Neves Arrojado (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Valuation of Starbucks Corporation - Chong, Cecilia (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Valuation of Nike Inc - Cheng, Kin San (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Valuation of Facebook, Inc - Lam, Weng I. (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Valuation of Dunkin' Brands Group, Inc - Ho, Hon U. (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Valuation of Chevron Corporation - Chenda, Elisa Francisco; Lao-Phillips, Jenny Oliveros (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Chevron Corporation (CVX) is one of the world’s largest energy companies, which operates across the entire Oil and Gas industry, including exploration and production as an Upstream operation and refining and marketing as a Downstream operation. Chevron has a strong presence worldwide, with operations in North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Europe, which includes more than 180 countries, where the US, in terms of production, represents 39.4% of the net oil-equivalent production in 2022. Its global presence, sustained by its competitive advantages, is challenged by its worldwide competitors, industry factors, and the economic environment. It is essential to understand the impact of such changes on the industry and the Company to accurately assess the intrinsic value of Chevron and its future positioning. To provide investors with helpful information, comparing the intrinsic value resulting from three valuation models with the Company's market share price as of December 31st, 2022, is essential
Keywords: Intrinsic value; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph; forecast; stock market price

The Financial Evaluation of the Estée Lauder Companies Inc - Chan, Hoi Ieng (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Financial Evaluation of the Coca-Cola Company - Chan, Cheok Hei (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); 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

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

The Experience of Happiness: Grasping Bliss through Buddhism and Kierkegaard’s Existentialism - Wu, Wai Han (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Philosophy; University of Saint Joseph

The evolutionary argument against naturalism: a Wittgensteinian response - DeVito, Michael; McNabb, Tyler (International Journal for Philosophy of Religion, 2022)
In this essay, we put forth a novel solution to Plantinga’s Evolutionary Argument Against Naturalism, utilizing recent work done by Duncan Pritchard on radical skepticism. Key to the success of Plantinga’s argument is the doubting of the reliability of one’s cognitive faculties. We argue (viz. Pritchard and Wittgenstein) that the reliability of one’s cognitive faculties constitutes a hinge commitment, thus is exempt from rational evaluation. In turn, the naturalist who endorses hinge epistemology can deny the key premise in Plantinga’s argument and avoid the dilemma posed on belief in the conjunction of naturalism and evolution.

The Emergence of Resources Seeking Chinese Firms’ Specific Advantages in Emerging Market - Ojo, Olukayode Iwaloye; Im, Hong Kei; Adeniyi, Damilola Olarewaju; Gbadamosi, Ayantunji; Alves, Jose; Link to external site, this link will open in a new window; Trimarchi, Michael (Sustainability, 2022)
It is argued that the role of the Chinese government to support the cross-border operations of Chinese firms is to assist these firms in overcoming their limited established brands, and their disadvantages in technology and managerial resources, which were also the reasons why such firms decided to enter emerging markets instead of developed markets. This strategic choice is preferred to avoid direct confrontation with established firms from developed countries endowed with superior ownership advantages. Therefore, Chinese resources seeking firms innovate by increasing investment in developing and emerging markets to develop unique ownership advantages for sustainable market development and competitive advantage. This research investigates the ownership advantages of resources seeking Chinese firms in these markets using the OLI theory. The paper contributes to explaining the specific advantages of Chinese MNEs when entering emerging markets. The study applied a two-stage qualitative methodology to examine Chinese firms operating in Nigeria. The first stage included an exploratory study based on interviews with key informants and experts while the second stage included a case study methodology. The study focused on resources seeking Chinese MNEs operating in Nigeria.
Keywords: OLI theory and Chinese firms; emerging markets; ownership advantages; resources seeking MNEs

THE EFFECTS OF TEACHER SELF-EFFICACY AND PERCEIVED AUTONOMY ON TEACHER WORK ENGAGEMENT: THE MEDIATING EFFECT OF PERCEIVED ORGANISATIONAL SUPPORT - Wan, Sok Leng (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
The aims of the present study are to investigate the level of work engagement of the inclusive teachers in Macau and what potential factors would contribute to the increase of their level of work engagement. In this research, the framework of the self-determination theory developed by Ryan and Deci in 2000 was partially employed. I suggested the inclusive teachers’ self-efficacy and perceived autonomy to act as the independent variables, while perceived organisational support was involved as the mediating variable. Quantitative method was applied in this study by using an online self-response questionnaire (N= 150). The stratified sampling strategy was applied as well in order to ensure the representativeness. No gender difference of work engagement level was found among Macau inclusive teachers. Positive correlations were found among all variables. Besides, perceived organisational support was expressing positive mediating effects on the relationships between independent and dependent variables under some specific circumstances. For example, the relationship between efficacy to use inclusive instructions and emotional and physical work engagement; the relationship between perceived autonomy and cognitive, emotional, and physical work engagement. Theoretical and practical implications for the non-tertiary schools and inclusive teachers can be found in this study. Future studies should be continued to investigate the limitations and suggestions of this field of research
Keywords: PERCEIVED ORGANISATIONAL SUPPORT; TEACHER PERCEIVED AUTONOMY; TEACHER SELF-EFFICACY; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph; WORK ENGAGEMENT

The Effects of Family Support, Friends Support, Supervisor Support, Co-worker Support, and Organizational Support to Resilience and its Effects to Work Engagement - Wong, Sio Peng (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph

The Effects of Distributive Justice, Perceived Organizational Support, Job Satisfaction and Caring Climate on Insurance Agents’ Turnover Intention: Mediating role of Affective Commitment and Its’ Implication For Insurance Company Management - Chan, Wang Cheong (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
The insurance companies in Macau are potentially facing a crisis of high turnover rates, exacerbated by the limited studies conducted on the insurance industry to address this issue, as the gaming and travel industries are currently experiencing a significant demand for human resources due to economic recovery. In light of this, a study was conducted to better understand the attitudes of 105 currently employed insurance agents in Macau insurance companies, specifically their commitment and thoughts of staying or leaving their employers. The study examined several independent variables (distributive justice, perceived organizational support (POS), job satisfaction, and caring climate) in relation to insurance agents’ turnover intention and the role of affective commitment. The aim was to determine the association between these variables and turnover intentions among insurance agents. The snowballing methodology was employed to effectively engage with the insurance agents and gain insights into their perspectives. The results of the statistical analysis revealed positive correlations between all independent variables and affective commitment. Job satisfaction and POS were identified as strong positive predictors. Additionally, mediated regression analyses demonstrated that affective commitment significantly mediated the relationship between all independent variables and turnover intention. Finally, the study provides implications for insurance company management to address and reduce the high turnover rate. Furthermore, the importance of future orientation is further discussed
Keywords: Affective commitment; Distributive justice; Insurance company; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); Turnover intention; University of Saint Joseph

The Effects of an Aikido Based Psychological Intervention Program in Workplace Stress - Tam, Heng Kun (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The effect of time regime in noise exposure on the auditory system and behavioural stress in the zebrafish - Wong, Man Ieng; Lau, Ieng Hou; Gordillo-Martinez, Flora; Vasconcelos, Raquel O. (Scientific Reports, 2022)
Anthropogenic noise of variable temporal patterns is increasing in aquatic environments, causing physiological stress and sensory impairment. However, scarce information exists on exposure effects to continuous versus intermittent disturbances, which is critical for noise sustainable management. We tested the effects of different noise regimes on the auditory system and behaviour in the zebrafish (Danio rerio). Adult zebrafish were exposed for 24 h to either white noise (150 ± 10 dB re 1 μPa) or silent control. Acoustic playbacks varied in temporal patterns—continuous, fast and slow regular intermittent, and irregular intermittent. Auditory sensitivity was assessed with Auditory Evoked Potential recordings, revealing hearing loss and increased response latency in all noise-treated groups. The highest mean threshold shifts (c. 13 dB) were registered in continuous and fast intermittent treatments, and no differences were found between regular and irregular regimes. Inner ear saccule did not reveal significant hair cell loss but showed a decrease in presynaptic Ribeye b protein especially after continuous exposure. Behavioural assessment using the standardized Novel Tank Diving assay showed that all noise-treated fish spent > 98% time in the bottom within the first minute compared to 82% in control, indicating noise-induced anxiety/stress. We provide first data on how different noise time regimes impact a reference fish model, suggesting that overall acoustic energy is more important than regularity when predicting noise effects.
Keywords: Ecology; Neuroscience; Physiology; Zoology

The Effect of Temporal Variation in Noise Exposure on Hearing and Inner Ear in the Zebrafish Model - Kuan, Chi Kin (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Master of Environmental Sciences and Management (MESM); University of Saint Joseph

The Effect of Self-Efficacy and Role Understanding on Teachers’ Emotional Exhaustion and Work Engagement in Inclusive Education in Macao (SAR) - Kuok, A. C. H.; Teixeira, Vitor; Forlin, Chris; Monteiro, Elisa; Correia, Ana (International Journal of Disability, Development and Education, 2020)
This study examined responses from 508 full-time teachers working in inclusive schools in Macao (SAR). The intention was to understand the teachers’ perceptions about their roles and how they responded to inclusive practices in their school. Teachers’ perceived levels of emotional exhaustion and cognitive work engagement were assessed in relation to several professional competencies (self-efficacy with using inclusive instruction, collaborating with parents and paraprofessionals, and managing disruptive behaviours), as well as the organisational variable of role understanding. Regression analysis showed that teachers’ self-efficacy with using inclusive instruction was found to be the most powerful negative predictor of emotional exhaustion; while self-efficacy for managing disruptive behaviours was a positive predictor of teachers’ cognitive work engagement. Teachers’ level of understanding of their role and that of their schools was a negative predictor of emotional exhaustion and a positive predictor of cognitive work engagement. Moreover, it further confirmed that the concept of co-existence between work engagement and burnout can be applied to inclusive teachers. Results were interpreted in relation to management in inclusive schools in Macao and were followed by a discussion on the implications of enhancing inclusive education.

The Effect of Peers, School Connectedness, Parents on Internet Gaming Addiction in Adolescents - Ip, Tan Long (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The Effect of Organizational Justice on Work Engagement Between Foreigner and Local Workers in Macau: The Moderating Effect of Organizational Commitment - Wong, Wai Fai (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph

The Development of Brand Equity in the Five-star Hotel Industry of Macao - U, Weng I. (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

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 Conservation and Restoration of Pith Painting: A Case Study of Five Art Pieces from Private Collections - Chan, Chi Leong (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of History & Heritage Studies (MHHS); University of Saint Joseph

The Conditions of Achieving Interactive Mindfulness Through Virtual Reality Single User: A Case Study Experience in Macao - Ng, Ka Man; Caires, Carlos (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Virtual reality (VR), a computer-generated 3D environment, allows one to navigate and possibly interact, resulting in real-time simulation of one or more of the user’s five senses (M. Gutierrez et al., 2008; Vince, 2004). Despite its history through past decades, this technology has quickly developed recently. Virtual tours and spaces have been widely used in the education, arts, and rehabilitation industries. According to research, it has significant effects on mindfulness (improving mood), cognitive development (better learning ability), and embodiment (relieving pain and medical conditions). This thesis aims to identify the conditions for Macao's single-user experience to achieve mindfulness in virtual reality through immersion and interactivity. With their various definitions, this research uses the two spectrums on the levels of immersion and interactivity, conducts four experiment settings with Macao residents, and collects qualitative questionnaires and quantitative survey data. The four settings differ as they tackle different aspects: spiritual memory, historical memory, aesthetic appreciation, and meditation through concept. The analysed results were then evaluated to seek better conditions for the local community to achieve mindfulness by immersing themselves in virtual reality
Keywords: Single user experience; Thesis and Dissertations PhD in Global Studies (D-GLS); University of Saint Joseph; immersion; interactivity; mindfulness; virtual reality; well-being

The concept of “Object-image” revisited through the interactive-film installation “Sense of Place” - Caires, C. S; Estadieu, G (Besides the Screen 2020, 2020)

The concept of “Object-image” revisited through the interactive-film installation “Sense of Place - Caires, C. S; Estadieu, G (Besides the Screen, 2020)

The Comparison of Different Linear and Nonlinear Models Using Preliminary Data to Efficiently Analyze the COVID-19 Outbreak - Fong, Simon James; Marques, João Alexandre Lobo; Li, G.; Dey, N.; Crespo, Rubén G.; Herrera-Viedma, E.; Gois, F. Nauber Bernardo; Neto, José Xavier (Epidemic Analytics for Decision Supports in COVID19 Crisis, 2022)
The COVID-19 pandemic spread generated an urgent need for computational systems to model its behavior and support governments and healthcare teams to make proper decisions. There are not many cases of global pandemics in history, and the most recent one has unique characteristics, which are tightly connected to the current society’s lifestyle and beliefs, creating an environment of uncertainty. Because of that, the development of mathematical/computational models to forecast the pandemic behavior since its beginning, i.e., with a restricted amount of data collected, is necessary. This chapter focuses on the analysis of different data mining techniques to allow the pandemic prediction with a small amount of data. A case study is presented considering the data from Wuhan, the Chinese city where the virus was first detected, and the place where the major outbreak occurred. The PNN + CF method (Polynomial Neural Network with Corrective Feedback) is presented as the technique with the best prediction performance. This is a promising method that might be considered in future eventual waves of the current pandemic or event to have a suitable model for future epidemic outbreaks around the world.
Keywords: Artificial neural networks; Epidemiology; Machine learning; Prediction models

The combat of truth and error: Newman and Chesterton on heresy - Morgan, Stephen (Lead Kindly Light. Essays for Ian Ker, 2022)

The Collaboration and Challenges Faced by Therapists within Professional Inclusive Education Teams in Macau =: 澳門治療師在融合教育專業團隊中的合作情況及挑戰 - Lao, Pek San (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph; 合作模式; 團隊合作; 治療服務; 澳門治療師

The Challenges of Nursery Teachers in the Early Childhood Inclusion Classes: A Qualitative Study of Macao Nursery Teachers - Wu, Ma Lei (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

The Caluation of Microsoft Coproration - Lee, Ka Lou (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The business of social justice in Macau - Morrison, Keith (Macau Business, 2023)
Macau, Macau Business, MAG, MB, MB Featured, Opinion | As Macau rebuilds its post-pandemic economy, one could be forgiven for believing that the good life for all has arrived, as evidenced in the manifest opulence on display in its up-market shopping malls. However, this is not the case; social justice needs attention in Macau.

The attractiveness of Taobao: why do people always come back despite negative feedback - Chan, Nga Man (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
Online shopping in Macau has developed rapidly in recent years. And the success of Taobao is significantly hard to not notice. Its’ sales are breaking the record every year. However, there are a lot of negative comments towards Taobao. Various researches and data have shown that live-streaming is one of the biggest contributions towards Taobao’s sales and record breaking. This research aims to investigate deeply to understand how Taobao counters those issues and the role of live-streaming in relation to it. Based on a review of the literature in the relevant areas , qualitative methodology is adopted after thorough considerations. A small sample size of 10 were selected to conduct semi-structured in-depth interviews and the participants agreed to respond to answer the original interview questions and the follow-up questions. Analysis of the responses demonstrated e-customer service is the most influential variable towards repurchase intention. Live-streaming strategy can effectively and directly reduce constomer’s uncertainty of products and increase the efficiency of responsiveness. And product uncertainty and responsiveness speed are variables that impact purchase intention. The result demonstrated live-streaming's effectiveness in combating multiple negative aspects of Taobao and strengthening the positive aspects. On this basis, live-streaming is an impactful method to combat Taobao. In addition, e-service in terms of sufficiency of the staff’s communication skill have been found important towards customer’s satisfaction. A gap related to such an issue has been recommended in the further research recommendations along with other factors or sample groups, which are needed to explore deeply in the future
Keywords: Authenticity; Customer satisfaction; E- Service quality; Repurchase intention; Taobao; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

The Association Between Interpersonal Relationships and Mental Health in College Students in Macao - Guo, Peiling (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The Association Between Early/ Emerging Adult-Parent Attachment and Problematic Internet Use Among College Students in Macao - Lao, Sio Mei (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

The Application of Zhuangzi's View on Death to the Philosophical Counselling - Choi, Cheng In (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Philosophy (MPH); University of Saint Joseph

The Application of Supervised and Unsupervised Computational Predictive Models to Simulate the COVID19 Pandemic - Fong, Simon James; Marques, João Alexandre Lobo; Li, Gloria; Dey, Nilanjan; Crespo, Rubén González; Herrera-Viedma, Enrique; Gois, Francisco Nauber Bernardo; Neto, José Xavier (Epidemic Analytics for Decision Supports in COVID19 Crisis, 2022)
The application of different tools for predicting COVID19 cases spreading has been widely considered during the pandemic. Comparing different approaches is essential to analyze performance and the practical support they can provide for the current pandemic management. This work proposes using the susceptible-exposed-asymptomatic but infectious-symptomatic and infectious-recovered-deceased (SEAIRD) model for different learning models. The first analysis considers an unsupervised prediction, based directly on the epidemiologic compartmental model. After that, two supervised learning models are considered integrating computational intelligence techniques and control engineering: the fuzzy-PID and the wavelet-ANN-PID models. The purpose is to compare different predictor strategies to validate a viable predictive control system for the COVID19 relevant epidemiologic time series. For each model, after setting the initial conditions for each parameter, the prediction performance is calculated based on the presented data. The use of PID controllers is justified to avoid divergence in the system when the learning process is conducted. The wavelet neural network solution is considered here because of its rapid convergence rate. The proposed solutions are dynamic and can be adjusted and corrected in real time, according to the output error. The results are presented in each subsection of the chapter.
Keywords: ANN predictor; COVID19; Epidemiology; Fuzzy predictor; PID control; SEAIRD

The Application of Nudge Theory in Ensuring Change Acceptance in the Hospitality-Gaming Industry – A Case Analysis from Macau SAR, China - Tagulao, Thea Clarice Saavedra; Marques, Joao Alexandre Lobo (Association for Computing Machinery, 2022)
As the rate of change increases exponentially, organizations must adapt quickly to the business landscape's volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA). As a result, organizations must implement agile strategies and practices to ensure their responsiveness and readiness to any changes brought about by internal or external factors. With a greater number of changes, change agents are tasked with implementing various change management methodologies to ensure that change recipients accept change initiatives. This research will look at one of the methodologies used by change agents, the use of nudges from Thaler and Sunstein's Nudge Theory, which is a subtle intervention to influence an individual's decision-making with the goal of steering them towards a specific desired outcome; and analyze their effectiveness towards the change recipients when implemented. Change agents were interviewed on the application of Nudge Theory to change recipients when managing to change initiatives within their respective organizations. The results indicate that the use of nudges created by the change agents can significantly impact the level of resistance from the change recipients. If used correctly, the Nudge Theory can mitigate change resistance, and the success of a change initiative is higher. But, if change recipients are forced to comply, their resistance will be greater, affecting the organization overall.
Keywords: Change Initiatives; Change Resistance; Nudge Theory; Organizational Behavior; Organizational Change Management

The Anglican Patrimony in Catholic Communion ed. by Tracey Rowland (review) - Morgan, Stephen (Antiphon: A Journal for Liturgical Renewal, 2021)

THE ANALYSIS OF MACAO TRADITIONAL PUBLICATION INDUSTRY BETWEEN 2000 TO 2023: TRANSFORMATION BEFORE AND AFTER PANDEMIC AND SUGGESTED STRATEGY - Ung, Cheng Nam (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
In this dissertation, the Macau traditional printing industry between 2000 and 2023 is studied. This period is critical for the publication industry due to several key events that have transformed the landscapes of both local and global publishing. These events include the rise of the internet, electronic devices, and the Chinese economy, the establishment of the Macao ISBN Agency, the emergence of online digital platforms, and the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. This dissertation will mainly focus on written Chinese publications and consider publications in other languages as references. Governmental official data, academic literature, questionnaires, interviews, and participant observation analysis will be used as the major approaches when collecting data and analyzing the Macao publication industry. Several development and transformation strategies will be suggested. In the future, the Macau publishing industry will need to make significant adjustments to stay competitive in the market. It will need to incorporate current technologies, such as electronic platforms and Print-on-demand (POD), into the publication process. Books will exist in electronic and physical formats at different stages. Vanity in publications will also be another new trend in the future. The role of the publisher has evolved in the modern publishing industry. Participants in publishing industry will need to acquire new skill sets to adapt to the industrial transformation. Allocating resources to structural training courses will help develop talent in the publication industry during the transition. We hope to provide insights into solutions for the transformation of the publishing industry in Macao
Keywords: Linguistic industry; Print on Demand; Thesis and Dissertations Master of History & Heritage Studies (MHHS); University of Saint Joseph; digital publication; publication; vanity publication

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

Temporary transnational labour mobility and gendered individualization in Europe - Harsløf, Ivan; Zuev, Dennis (Mobilities, 2022)
In a context of a new transnational division of labour, temporary international labour mobility is on the rise in Europe. In particular, recent decades have seen considerably more women seeking work experience abroad. Observers have been concerned with how such mobility is related to individualization, and in particular how it may challenge collective institutions, communities and families. The aim of this study is to explore such issues among women and men with international work experience. Using data from European Social Survey, the paper investigates previously mobile workers in terms of their current working and living conditions. Across genders, we consider different forms of individualization that may be associated with transnational labour mobility. While both women and men with transnational work experience generally feature strong strategic individualization, this is most pronounced among men. Hence, men's mobility is among other things associated with increased autonomy in working life, while – in contrast to women – it does not seem to hamper their integration in the sphere of social reproduction.
Keywords: Europe; Temporary labour mobility; individualization; sphere of production; sphere of social reproduction; transnational division of labour

Technology Developments to Face the COVID-19 Pandemic: Advances, Challenges, and Trends - Lobo Marques, Joao Alexandre; Fong, Simon James (Computerized Systems for Diagnosis and Treatment of COVID-19, 2023)
The global pandemic triggered by the Corona Virus Disease firstly detected in 2019 (COVID-19), entered the fourth year with many unknown aspects that need to be continuously studied by the medical and academic communities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), until January 2023, more than 650 million cases were officially accounted (with probably much more non tested cases) with 6,656,601 deaths officially linked to the COVID-19 as plausible root cause. In this Chapter, an overview of some relevant technical aspects related to the COVID-19 pandemic is presented, divided in three parts. First, the advances are highlighted, including the development of new technologies in different areas such as medical devices, vaccines, and computerized system for medical support. Second, the focus is on relevant challenges, including the discussion on how computerized diagnostic supporting systems based on Artificial Intelligence are in fact ready to effectively help on clinical processes, from the perspective of the model proposed by NASA, Technology Readiness Levels (TRL). Finally, two trends are presented with increased necessity of computerized systems to deal with the Long Covid and the interest on Precision Medicine digital tools. Analyzing these three aspects (advances, challenges, and trends) may provide a broader understanding of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the development of Computerized Diagnostic Support Systems.

Teaching Portuguese and Patuá Languages at the University of Saint Joseph and its contribution to the Portuguese and Patuá languages in Macau - U, Elvino Agostinho (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
This study analyses how to contribute to the Portuguese cultural language in Macau. Macau has a long Portuguese governing history, which has lasted for around 450 years and formed the Portuguese cultural heritage. One of the elements is Portuguese and Patuá languages, the languages the Macau residents used to speak. Since the Portuguese and Patuá cultural heritage influence happened, the Macau government has tried to preserve the Portuguese cultural language as much as possible. In Macau, the University of Saint Joseph is a part of the Portuguese and Patuá language contribution in conducting Portuguese programmes for students. This study aims to find out how to effectively promote the Portuguese and Patuá cultural language via the Macau education system and how to benefit the development of the Portuguese cultural language in Macau. To find out the efficient way of the Portuguese and Patuá cultural language contribution at the University of Saint Joseph, we applied snowball analysis to find the key interviewees to conduct face-to-face semi-structured interviews with six interviewees. The results show that the Portuguese and Patuá cultural languages are vital to the Macau education system, especially for students learning Portuguese. For students, learning Portuguese should be compulsory in Macau
Keywords: Audio-lingual method; Patuá drama; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph; cultural difference; cultural identity; learning Portuguese; reading-lingual method; translation theory

Teaching and learning with older adults: Research ethics, risk analysis, and covert research - Ní Bhroin, Áine; Morrison, Keith (Educational Gerontology, 2024)
This article reports a case study of older adults learning English in China. It indicates how, founded on consequentialist ethics, risk analysis, and safeguarding, it was decided to use covert research, drawing on the confluence of risk analysis, risk evaluation, risk management, safeguarding, research ethics, and important contextual and cultural features. Ethical principles of nonmaleficence, beneficence, safeguarding, and protection were addressed, and account was taken of the strength, likelihood, and consequences of risks, safeguards, and benefits, informed by Chinese cultural contexts, values, behaviors, and features of teaching and learning based on andragogy and geragogy. Implications are drawn for teaching and learning with older adults, advocating significant account to be taken of contextual factors.

Teachers’Perceptions of Performance Appraisal in a Secondary School in Asia: A Case Study - Potger, Matthew Rodney (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Teachers' Approaches to Ethical Dilemmas in Catholic Schools - Ngo, Van Thu Giang (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Teacher's Teaching Style and the Learning Attitude of Elementary School Students: A Macau Case Study = 小學生學習態度與教師教學風格現況之研究—以澳門某小學為例 - 洪麗 (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Keywords: Learning Attitude; Macau; Primary School; Teacher's Teaching Style; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Teacher Efficacy: Inclusive Practice to Support Learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL) among Chinese-Speaking Students with Dyslexia in Macau - Oksana, Zorina (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Teacher Burnout: Applying the Job Demands and Resources Model in Macao - Ng, Kun Keong (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

Taming randomized controlled trials in education: exploring key claims, issues and debates - Morrison, Keith (Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group, 2021)
"There is a recent surge in the use of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) within education globally, with disproportionate claims being made about what they show, 'what works', and what constitutes the best 'evidence'. Drawing on up-to-date scholarship from across the world, Taming Randomized Controlled Trials in Education critically addresses the increased use of RCTs in education, exploring their benefits, limits and cautions, and ultimately questioning the prominence given to them. While acknowledging that randomized controlled trials do have some place in education, the book nevertheless argues that this place should be limited. Drawing together all arguments for and against RCTs in a comprehensive and easily accessible single volume, the book also adds new perspectives and insights to the conversation; crucially, the book considers the limits of their usefulness and applicability in education, raising a range of largely unexplored concerns about their use. Chapters include discussions on: The impact of complexity theory and chaos theory Design issues and sampling in randomized controlled trials Learning from clinical trials Data analysis in randomized controlled trials Reporting, evaluating and generalizing from randomized controlled trials. Considering key issues in understanding and interrogating research evidence, this book is ideal reading for all students on Research Methods modules, as well as those interested in undertaking and reviewing research in the field of education"--
Keywords: Clinical trials; Education; Educational indicators; Research Data processing; Research Methodolgy

Sustainable Practices in Hotel Chains—A Comparative Analysis of Official Annual Hospitality Sustainable Reports from Listed Companies in Macau SAR, China - Santos, Ana Sofia Kong; Marques, João Alexandre Lobo (Springer International Publishing, 2023)
In the last few years, the tourism industry has experienced rapid expansion and diversification, making it one of the fastest-growing financial industries in the world. Consequently, the hotel industry has significantly affected the environment's long-term viability. Many hotels have begun voluntarily implementing environmentally sustainable practices as they become more aware of their ecological footprint. There has been a great deal of discussion about the effects of hotel operations on the environment and tourism sustainability in Macau. It is because of these negative impacts that hoteliers have adopted green practices in an attempt to minimize them. By developing sustainability reports, hotels can set goals, measure performance, and manage change, resulting in better sustainability. It could also be viewed as a strategy to enhance the company’s sustainability reporting to ensure stakeholders know what the company does. The objective of this study is twofold based on the analysis of the official sustainability reports of four major hotel chains. Firstly, seven categories of sustainable practices effectively adopted by these chain hotels are identified and clusterized. Second, it is presented in which areas some hotels performed more efficiently than others, considering the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a reference. The results allow a comprehensive clusterized analysis of the industry in a highly developed gaming and entertainment area of South China and create a clear comparison between relevant players and their concerns about sustainability practices.
Keywords: Environmentally sustainable practices; Macau hotels; Sustainable development goals (SDGs); Sustainable reports; Tourism industry

Sustainable development or survival of Macau? - Morrison, Keith (Macau Business, 2022)
Macau, Macau Business, MAG, MB, MB Featured, Opinion | In June of this year, a publication entitled ‘Macau’s sustainability and diversification’ noted that Macau’s ‘economic volatility caused by an unbalanced industrial structure restricts the diversified development of society. Economic diversification is the only way for Macau to achieve sustainable development’. Nothing new there, and, anyway, such a singular view is unconvincing. What about other aspects of society? Diversity is not singular, and it requires inclusion.

Sustainable Buildings’ Projects – A Perspective from Consultants and Contractors based in Macau SAR, China - J.P.P. Santos, Eduardo; Lobo Marques, Joao; Phyllips, Jenny O. L. (Association for Computing Machinery, 2021)
China growing awareness of sustainability has brought out relevant aspects to move towards a green environment. Since its subscription in 2016, China has been committed to implementing the Paris Agreement, and the Greater Bay Area (GBA) development plan prioritizes ecology and pursuing green development. The primary purpose of this research is to perceive the companies' insights concerning the implementation of sustainable buildings’ projects in Macau. For this multi-case study analysis, primary data was gathered from interviews with two groups involved in the construction projects’ lifecycle: Consultants and Contractors, to analyze different perceptions and concerns. The interviews considered two different themes about the main topic: (1) Perception on Companies’ Experience in Sustainable Projects; (2) Key Drivers towards Sustainable Buildings’ Projects’ Implementation. In conclusion, according to the analyzed data, it is essential to notice that companies’ background and the market particularities affect their corporate performance specially connected to the green construction frameworks. The data also indicate that it is necessary to move towards regulations and policies to change corporate and people's mindset.
Keywords: Construction industry; Green building; Sustainable Policies; Sustainable building

SURVIVAL, MORPHOLOGY AND REPRODUCTION OF ENHALUS ACOROIDES (L.f.) ROYLE IN THE BOLINAO-ANDA REEF SYSTEM, NW PHILIPPINES: EFFECTS OF VARYING LIGHT CONDITIONS - Tagulao, Karen Araño (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
Seagrasses play a critical role in coastal ecosystems worldwide, providing various ecosystem services based on their region and genus. In Southeast Asia, where seagrass biodiversity and extents are at their highest, the livelihoods and food security of many coastal communities depend on these plants. Despite their ecological and economic importance, seagrasses face global threats from human activities such as pollution and land use changes. Enhalus acoroides, a widely distributed seagrass species in the tropical Indo-Pacific region, is particularly valuable for coastal management and conservation efforts due to its size and provision of various ecosystem services. Although previous research has indicated that it is less sensitive to environmental changes than other tropical seagrass species, recent reports highlight its vulnerability to siltation and eutrophication. This dissertation aimed to examine how Enhalus responds and adapts to changes in light availability, taking into account both morphological adaptation and phenotypic plasticity. Field surveys, reciprocal transplantation field experiments, and investigations of sexual reproductive effort were conducted in the Bolinao-Anda Reef system (NW Philippines) to evaluate the impact of long-term environmental changes on Enhalus populations. The findings of this study revealed that Enhalus has the capacity to adapt its traits and survive changes in depth, light gradients, and different habitat types. This is evidenced by larger shoots in low-light environments, which is apparently a response to the reduction in light availability, as evidenced in both in situ and experimental setups. Larger leaf surface area in light-reduced setups also had higher concentration of chlorophylls a and b pigments. Transplants from light-reduced environments, although morphologically large, appeared more vulnerable (with low survival values) to environmental changes associated with translocation. Being morphologically large is therefore likely a stress response to light reduction, allocating more energy on light harvesting than sexual reproduction. Reciprocal transplantation experiments indicated a high survival rate, suggesting the potential of Enhalus for use in rehabilitation. However, despite having wider plasticity to adapt to light-limitation, they can be wiped out when threshold is reached. This thesis underscores the need for further research on Enhalus' response to stressors, genetic variation, and adaptive capacity to address conservation and management challenges
Keywords: Enhalus acoroides; Thesis and Dissertations PhD in Science (D-SC); University of Saint Joseph; light availability; phenotypic plasticity; seagrass; transplantation

Sunshine and shadows - Morrison, Keith (Macau Business, 2023)
Macau, Macau Business, MAG, MB, MB Featured, Opinion | The recent euphoria over Macau’s economic resurrection should not mask the long-standing challenges facing its society and values. Sunshine creates shadows in which can lurk a range of pathologies.

Sulfur isotopic compositions of sulfides along the Southwest Indian Ridge: implications for mineralization in ultramafic rocks - Dias, Ágata; Ding, Teng; Tao, Chunhui; Liang, Jin; Chen, Jie; Wu, Bin; Ma, Dongsheng; Zhang, Rongqing; Wang, Jia; Liao, Shili; Wang, Yuan; Yang, Weifang; et al. (Mineralium Deposita, 2020)

Sudden cardiac death multiparametric classification system for Chagas heart disease's patients based on clinical data and 24-hours ECG monitoring - Cavalcante, Carlos H. L.; Primo, Pedro E. O.; Sales, Carlos A. F.; Caldas, Weslley L.; Silva, João H. M.; Souza, Amauri H.; Marinho, Emmanuel S.; Pedrosa, Roberto C.; Marques, João A. L.; Santos, Hélcio S.; Madeiro, João P. V.; Cavalcante, Carlos H. L.; et al. (Mathematical Biosciences and Engineering, 2023)
About 6.5 million people are infected with Chagas disease (CD) globally, and WHO estimates that $ > million people worldwide suffer from ChHD. Sudden cardiac death (SCD) represents one of the leading causes of death worldwide and affects approximately 65% of ChHD patients at a rate of 24 per 1000 patient-years, much greater than the SCD rate in the general population. Its occurrence in the specific context of ChHD needs to be better exploited. This paper provides the first evidence supporting the use of machine learning (ML) methods within non-invasive tests: patients' clinical data and cardiac restitution metrics (CRM) features extracted from ECG-Holter recordings as an adjunct in the SCD risk assessment in ChHD. The feature selection (FS) flows evaluated 5 different groups of attributes formed from patients' clinical and physiological data to identify relevant attributes among 57 features reported by 315 patients at HUCFF-UFRJ. The FS flow with FS techniques (variance, ANOVA, and recursive feature elimination) and Naive Bayes (NB) model achieved the best classification performance with 90.63% recall (sensitivity) and 80.55% AUC. The initial feature set is reduced to a subset of 13 features (4 Classification; 1 Treatment; 1 CRM; and 7 Heart Tests). The proposed method represents an intelligent diagnostic support system that predicts the high risk of SCD in ChHD patients and highlights the clinical and CRM data that most strongly impact the final outcome.

Succession in Chinese family business: transgenerational transmission of social capital in Macao - Phillips, Jenny O. L. (USJ Theses and Dissertations, 2022)
Macao is well known for its gaming industry. However, there are also many traditional small-to-medium enterprises which are family-owned and run. There is no doubt that social capital is one of the key competitive advantages that family businesses possess, particularly when it comes to Chinese businesses with strong family values that emphasize the importance of trustworthiness and guanxi (relationships). As opposed to other forms of capital, social capital cannot be passed from one generation to another through the will of the incumbents. So, how is social capital passed on in family businesses from one generation to the next? Based on an in-depth study of five cases of successful family businesses in Macao, this research identified the forms of social capital present in business families and the succession process of these firms. From the generalizations drawn from the five cases, a theoretical framework is proposed to understand the intergenerational transmission of social capital in Chinese family businesses
Keywords: China Macau (Special Administrative Region); Family-owned business enterprises

Sub-Seafloor Sulfide Mineralization in the Saldanha Hydrothermal Field, Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) - Dias, Ágata; Qiu, Wenhong; Barriga, Fernando J A S; Tao, Chunhui (Goldschmidt2020, 2020)

Study on User Acceptance on Customer Behavior for Online Payment in Macau: MPAY Case Study - Wong, Chi Cheng (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
With the rapid expansion of mobile e-commerce, an increasing number of businesses have jumped into the fray in all facets of the mobile electric commerce industry chain. The payment link is the most competitive. From the norm in the sector to the consumer market, telecom operator rivalry, as well as third-party payment between different companies, never ceases. In the context of mobile e-commerce, however, competition has shifted from traditional product-centered to customer- centered, and business success frequently rests on the customer. As a result, the competition in the mobile e-commerce payment industry is essentially about competing for users. Mpay is characteristic of mobile e-commerce payment firm representatives; on the basis of theoretical analysis, combined with the reality of the economic background, the study chose Mpay mobile payment users as research subjects and analyzed the major variables of user acceptability. The model was built on the basis of an extensive evaluation of past research results of user acceptance model and reference to UTAUT model. The model considered performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence, facilitating condition as independent variables determining user behavior intention, Based on the conceptual model, the paper conducted an empirical investigation as a case study of a Mpay mobile payment user using data from a questionnaire, while also conducting a separate discussion of the impact of perceived risk and trust on user acceptance. The empirical results indicate that for mobile payment users, performance expectancy has the greatest positive effect on behavior intention, while facilitating conditions, social influence, perceived risk, effort expectancy, and trust have no effect. In addition, gender and age were discovered to influence user acceptance
Keywords: Online mobile payment; SmartPLS; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); UTAUT model; University of Saint Joseph; user acceptance

Study on Influencing Factors of University Students' entrepreneurial Intention: Greater Bay Area as an example - Yu, Yuan Bao (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Keywords: Macro level; Micro level; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph; college student; entrepreneurial Intention; entrepreneurship

Study of the Cross-Border Family Mediation Mechanisms and Practices in the Greater Bay Area (China, Hong Kong SAR, and Macau SAR”) - Wong, Hang Si (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
The dissertation is about the study on the usage of mediation as the dispute mechanism on the cross-border family dispute issue in the Guangdong -Hong Kong- Macau Greater Bay Area through a comparative law aspects. Under the background of the Country’s Policy in integrating the citizens of the two SARs into China. The citizens of different provinces in PRC and the two SARs have frequent contact such as in business, in personal affairs and so on, the more the contact the more the possibility disputes will arise. With three different jurisdictions and the backlogs from the Courts, to find out the possibility of using another dispute resolution is essential. The study found out the perspectives of the disputed / litigated parties, courts and legal practitioners in usage of mediation, the nature of mediation in use in GBA and the strengths and limitations on the usage of mediation. This research used a mixed methods including doctrinal legal research, comparative legal research method and empirical legal research method. It result from the finding that though there is no specialized legislation in usage of mediation in Macau SAR, there is practice in usage of family mediation. Besides that the judicial mediation in PRC is not the mediation we defined in the literature review, thus it is the conciliation. Whether the recent development in Hong Kong SAR on the procedures M-FDR and M-CDR are in conflict with the facilitative mediation which has all along been practiced in Hong Kong SAR. In conclusion, the perspectives in usage of mediation in PRC and Hong Kong SAR are higher than Macau SAR and the nature of mediation in usage are different in the three jurisdictions. Lastly, in the dissertation provided some reflections on the development of family mediation mechanism in Macau SAR and how to merge the different natures of mediation in GBA
Keywords: ADR; Alternative Dispute Resolution; GBA; Greater Bay Area; Mediation; Mediation Mechanism; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Lusophone and International Public Law(MLIPL); University of Saint Joseph

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

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

Study and Analysis of English Press in Macau: Its Impact and Challenges - Pangan, Cheila Alexis Clemente (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

Students’ wellbeing during the Covid-19 pandemic - Ikegami, Kiiko (The International Webinar of University Riau Conference, 2021)

Student engagement, higher education, and social justice: beyond neoliberalism and the market - Bramley, Corinna; Morrison, Keith (Routledge, 2023)
"Student engagement is a catch-all term, irresistible to educators and policy makers, and serving many agendas and purposes. This ground-breaking book provides a powerful theory of student engagement, rooted in critical theory and social justice. It sets out a compelling argument for student engagement to promote social justice and to repel neoliberalism in, and through, higher education, addressing three key questions: -Student engagement in what? -Student engagement for what? -Student engagement for whom? The answers draw on Habermas, Honneth, Gramsci, Foucault, and Giroux in examining ideology, power, recognition, resistance, and student engagement, with examples drawn from across the world. It sets out key features, limitations and failures of neoliberalism in higher education, and indicates how student engagement can resist it. Student engagement calls for higher education institutions to be sites for challenge, debate on values and power, action for social justice, and for students to engage in the struggle to resist neoliberalism, taking action to promote social justice, democracy, and the public good. This book is essential reading for educators, researchers, managers and students in higher education, social scientists and social theorists. It is a call to reawaken higher education for social justice, human rights, democracy and freedoms"--
Keywords: Active learning; Education, Higher; Neoliberalism; Social aspects; Social justice and education

STRATEGIES FOR BUILDING A SMART TOURISM CITY: A CASE STUDY OF MACAO SAR AND THE PERCEPTION OF EXPERTS - Da Rosa Ho, Hoi Lam (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
This dissertation explores the strategies for developing a smart tourism city in the background of Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the perceptions of different experts in Macao. Awared that the Macao government aims to expedite the development of a livable, smart, and green Macao and requires smart technology to be applied to upgrade the people’s livelihood. This is a long-term ambition to achieve and whether success remains uncertain. Through literature review, understood that the traditional tourism industry must be transformed and innovated to enhance competition since the 90s. And smart tourism cities provide enhanced tourists’ experience and residents’ better quality of life. Although prior research have studied the tourist behavior of smart tourism contents or evalutated strategic plans for the construction of a smart tourism city, there is no previous research explored on the topic. Therefore, this dissertation through qualitative research methods including on-site observations, analyzing government-released documents and interviewing relevant experts. The findings present the seven components of the conceptual framework, including physical infrastructures, technology applications, experience sharing, big data, business co-creation, technical professionals, and cyber security, are strongly support the smart tourism city development in Macao. Provide a clear understanding for the relevant stakeholders to practice in a smart tourism city context. In addition, from the perspective of experts, the key for successfully develop Macao as a smart tourism city is that should apply ‘government-led, multi-party participation, and marketing operation’ in every component of the framework. The key for success depends on all stakeholders actively participae the activities. Four recommondations also present at the end of this disseartation. Prospects the development of smart tourism city in Macao can enhance both the quality of tourists’ experience and residents’ life as well as driven the long-term economic growth sustainably
Keywords: Smart Tourism City; Technology and tourism development; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Government Studies (MGS); University of Saint Joseph

Stock Market Prediction Using Artificial Intelligence: A Systematic Review of Systematic Reviews - Lin, Coka Chinyang; Marques, Joao Alexandre Lobo (2023)
There are many systematic reviews on predicting stock. However, each of them reveals a different portion of the hybrid AI analysis and stock prediction puzzle. The principal objective of this research was to systematically review and conclude the systematic reviews on AI and stock to provide particularly useful predictions for making future strategies for stock markets. Keywords that would fall under the broad headings of AI and stock prediction were looked up in two databases, Scopus and Web of Science. We screened 69 titles and read 43 systematic reviews which include more than 379 studies before retaining 10 of them.
Keywords: Deep Learning; Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM); Machine Learning; Neural Networks (NN); Support Vector Machines (SVM)

Statistical Methods to Forecast Air Quality in Taipa Ambient and Taipa Residential of Macao - Lei, Man Tat; Monjardino, Joana; Mendes, Luisa; Gonçalves, David; Ferreira, Francisco (Springer, 2021)
Air pollution is a major concern issue on Macao since the concentration levels of several of the most common pollutants are frequently above the internationally recommended values. The low air quality episodes impacts on human health paired with highly populated urban areas are important motivations to develop forecast methodologies in order to anticipate pollution episodes, allowing establishing warnings to the local community to take precautionary measures and avoid outdoor activities during this period. Using statistical methods (multiple linear regression (MLR) and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis) we were able to develop forecasting models for the main pollutants (NO2, PM2.5, and O3) enabling us to know the next day concentrations with a good skill, translated by high coefficients of determination (0.82–0.90) on a 95% confidence level. The model development was based on six years of historical data, 2013 to 2018, consisting of surface and upper-air meteorological observations and surface air quality observations. The year of 2019 was used for model validation. From an initially large group of meteorological and air quality variables only a few were identified as significant dependent variables in the model. The selected meteorological variables included geopotential height, relative humidity and air temperature at different altitude levels and atmospheric stability characterization parameters. The air quality predictors used included recent past hourly levels of mean concentrations for NO2 and PM2.5 and maximum concentrations for O3. The application of the obtained models provides the expected daily mean concentrations for NO2 and PM2.5 and maximum hourly concentrations O3 for the next day in Taipa Ambient air quality monitoring stations. The described methodology is now operational, in Macao, since 2020.

Statistical Forecast of Pollution Episodes in Macao during National Holiday and COVID-19 - Lei, Man Tat; Monjardino, Joana; Mendes, Luisa; Gonçalves, David; Ferreira, Francisco (International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2020)
Statistical methods such as multiple linear regression (MLR) and classification and regression tree (CART) analysis were used to build prediction models for the levels of pollutant concentrations in Macao using meteorological and air quality historical data to three periods: (i) from 2013 to 2016, (ii) from 2015 to 2018, and (iii) from 2013 to 2018. The variables retained by the models were identical for nitrogen dioxide (NO2), particulate matter (PM10), PM2.5, but not for ozone (O3) Air pollution data from 2019 was used for validation purposes. The model for the 2013 to 2018 period was the one that performed best in prediction of the next-day concentrations levels in 2019, with high coefficient of determination (R2), between predicted and observed daily average concentrations (between 0.78 and 0.89 for all pollutants), and low root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and biases (BIAS). To understand if the prediction model was robust to extreme variations in pollutants concentration, a test was performed under the circumstances of a high pollution episode for PM2.5 and O3 during 2019, and the low pollution episode during the period of implementation of the preventive measures for COVID-19 pandemic. Regarding the high pollution episode, the period of the Chinese National Holiday of 2019 was selected, in which high concentration levels were identified for PM2.5 and O3, with peaks of daily concentration exceeding 55 μg/m3 and 400 μg/m3, respectively. The 2013 to 2018 model successfully predicted this high pollution episode with high coefficients of determination (of 0.92 for PM2.5 and 0.82 for O3). The low pollution episode for PM2.5 and O3 was identified during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic period, with a low record of daily concentration for PM2.5 levels at 2 μg/m3 and O3 levels at 50 μg/m3, respectively. The 2013 to 2018 model successfully predicted the low pollution episode for PM2.5 and O3 with a high coefficient of determination (0.86 and 0.84, respectively). Overall, the results demonstrate that the statistical forecast model is robust and able to correctly reproduce extreme air pollution events of both high and low concentration levels.
Keywords: COVID-19; air pollution; air quality forecast; modelling; national holiday; pollution episodes

Statistical Forecast Applied to Two Macao Air Monitoring Stations - Lei, M.; Monjardino, J.; Mendes, L.; Gonçalves, D.; Ferreira, F. (IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, 2020)
The levels of air pollution in Macao often exceeded the levels recommended by WHO. In order for the population to take precautionary measures and avoid further health risks under high pollutant exposure, it is important to develop a reliable air quality forecast. Statistical models based on multiple regression (MR) analysis were developed successfully for Macao to predict the next day concentrations of PM10, PM2.5, and NO2. All the developed models were statistically significantly valid with a 95% confidence level with high coefficients of determination (from 0.89 to 0.92) for all pollutants. The models utilized meteorological and air quality variables based on five years of historical data, from 2013 to 2017. The data from 2013 to 2016 were used to develop the statistical models and data from 2017 were used for validation purposes. A wide range of meteorological and air quality variables were identified, and only some were selected as significant dependent variables. Meteorological variables were selected from an extensive list of variables, including geopotential height, relative humidity, atmospheric stability, and air temperature at different vertical levels. Air quality variables translate the resilience of the recent past concentrations of each pollutant and usually are maximum and/or the average of latest 24-hour levels. The models were applied in forecasting the next day average daily concentrations for PM10, PM2.5, and NO2 for the air quality monitoring stations. The results are expected to be an operational air quality forecast for Macao.

Static recording apparatus for soundscape analysis in Macau - Estadieu, Gerald; Cheung, Yin Yan; Pestana, Pedro Duarte; Barbosa, Alvaro (INTER-NOISE and NOISE-CON Congress and Conference Proceedings, 2023)
The concept of Soundscape was initially proposed to study the relationship between humans and their sonic environment. It has gathered momentum from academia to environmentalists and policymakers throughout the years. The study and characterisation of Soundscapes can be complex as it tries to take a holistic and qualitative approach rather than simply quantifying sound pressure levels. This paper introduces a comprehensive Soundscape study process in an ongoing research project in Macao (China), a small territory (32.9 km2) and one of the most densely populated areas in the world. The paper seeks to show a first version of a technical solution to systematically capture the local soundscape, analyse it, classify it, and ultimately deliver a dataset library and the intangible qualities of the environmental sound. This implementation, including technical documentation, code, and sound library with strong labelling, is presented under an open-source license to encourage future collaborative research. Finally, the paper offers suggestions on further developing the apparatus to reach a systematic and near real-time soundscape analysis with the development of a machine learning system.

SPORTS FACILITIES IN HIGH-DENSITY URBAN AREA - Wong, Si Weng (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
How can we provide more sports areas in a high-density urban environment? Nowadays, most cities in Asia are experiencing high-speed development (Satterthwaite, 2023). There is an intensely increasing demand for land that is confronted with an insufficient supply of space, resulting in a shortfall of suitable construction space to meet the rising demand. Over the past few decades, different countries and cities have created various solutions for this issue. This shortage of space has been resolved in various ways, for example: through land reclamation, renovation, and architectural design (Grydehoj, 2015). This dissertation seeks to analyse and discuss how architects have used design to expand spaces within the limited available areas for public spaces like sports facilities (Carmona, 2021). Understanding how sports modalities influence architecture and space utilisation for sports activities will also be covered. Additionally, it will examine case studies on how to better implement the program in a limited urban area with regards to the typology connections of sports facilities and their interaction with users. Finally, this dissertation is practice-based and oriented, the case study and project development will focus on a sports facility in the high-density populated Taipa Centre (Macau). This specific project solution will address the real problem for the city, and research will conclude by analysing the constraints of sports architecture in high-density areas, providing design solutions for these situations, and thereby contributing to the improvement of public spaces in a city
Keywords: Centrality; High-Density Urban Spaces; Indoor-Outdoor Interaction; Sports Facilities; Stacking; Theses and Dissertations Master of Architecture (MARCH); University of Saint Joseph

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Strategic Vision (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Conceptual Master Plan (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Conceptual Design: Zone 06 – Santo Agostinho (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Conceptual Design: Zone 05 - Felicidade (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Conceptual Design Zone 04 – Harbou (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Conceptual Design: Zone 03 – Ponte e Horta (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Conceptual Design: Zone 02 - Padre António (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)

Southern Inner Harbour Public Domain – Conceptual Design: Zone 01 –Manduco (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)

SOUNDSCAPE.AI - A Sonic Perspectives on Macau - Estadieu, G (Iberian Soundscapes Conference, 2023)

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.

Socio-economic Impacts of Low Unemployment in Macau - Wong, Leng Cheng (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

SOCIAL PERSPECTIVES ABOUT CANTONESE OPERA IN MACAO ACROSS GENERATIONS: CULTURAL IDENTITY AND SOCIAL BONDING - Sin, Shuk Ching; Silva, Maria Rita (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
"Cantonese opera (CO) represents an art form that had its golden time in Macao during the mid-twentieth century. CO still has many loyal fans but they mainly are in the older generation. The purpose of this study was to explore if CO is considered a cultural capital heritage in Macao, related to cultural identity and transmitted across generations to support social bonding. Applying a qualitative methodology, a script for exploring participants’ experiences and opinions about CO was designed, and different groups of individuals were recruited for semi-structured interviews and focus groups. The data collected was analysed by a thematic analysis of the verbatim transcripts. Findings show that in the past first contacts with CO happened in family and related social context, mainly during participants’ developing age. However, currently CO is no longer passed on to the next generation. Despite that the young generations acknowledging their cultural identities in CO, mainly in terms of Cantonese culture and Cantonese language, older individuals engaged with CO seemed to perceive their cultural identities more in depth in its history, literacy and music. Actually, engagement is an important factor that generates social bonds. The CO leisure practitioners, no matter young or old, experienced the effects of social bonding during the ritual of enquiry in the process of learning and practising CO. To improve CO’s preservation in Macao, the adoption of strategies such as developing new productions, crossover with other media, innovations in promotion targeting the young audiences, and absorbing audiences in the Great Bay area were proposed. Finally, the potential use of CO as a tool in counselling and community work is discussed. "
Keywords: Cantonese Opera; Cultural Identity; Individual Well-being; Social Bonding; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

SOCIAL MEDIA AND UNIVERSITY STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVE OF RELIGION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF EVERY NATION IN THE PHILIPPINES AND MACAU - Tabilas, Analeah Marie R. (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
This research analyzed and compared the Instagram content of Victory Philippines and Every Nation Manila to evaluate its impact on the faith perception of university students associated with these churches. In this digital age, institutions have embraced the shift towards online interactions, including adapting religious practices such as worship services to online platforms. Religious organizations are navigating the dynamics between online and offline communication methods as they adapt to engaging with their audience through social media channels. While previous research has delved into online religious content and virtual church services, no prior studies have specifically compared the social media communication strategies of Every Nation churches in Manila, Philippines, and Macau. The research employed a mixed-method approach, compromising interviews, focus groups, and quantitative content analysis. As per the interviews, these took place with four pastors and four media content creators within the Metro Manila region of Every Nation Philippines, commonly recognized as Victory Philippines, and one pastor and one content creator of Every Nation Macau. These interviews helped gather insights into their thought processes and analyze their social media strategies and plans. Three distinct focus group discussions were carried out, involving 15 undergraduate students from Manila and Macau affiliated with Victory Philippines and Every Nation Macau. The participants were equally divided into three groups. These students also actively engage with the Victory Philippines and Every Nation Macau Instagram posts. These focus group discussions were employed to analyze patterns to understand their thought processes. Furthermore, a quantitative content analysis was carried out on Victory Philippines and Every Nation’s Instagram account as part of the study. Despite the active engagement on social media platforms by Victory Philippines and Every Nation Macau, both organizations maintained a strong offline church community. Interviews conducted indicated that the online activities of these churches significantly influenced the faith of students, while their spiritual growth was further supported by an inclusive offline community. This approach exemplified a multi-generational ethos, fostering collaboration between younger and older members towards the shared objective of evangelism. This research validates the Figuring and Disfiguring theoretical framework of Taylor (2007, apud Åhman and Thorén, 2021). The results of the empirical data may provide strong practical guidance to churches of any size as they build and develop their online presence while strengthening their offline presence
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

Social Integration and the Screening of the Early-Stage Dementia in Older Adults: The Mediation Role of Mental Health - Wong Wai Hong (University of Saint Joseph, 2021)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Social Work (MSW); University of Saint Joseph

Smart Home Interactive Design: How can Interactive Design be Combined with a Smart Home System to help Human Future? - He, Min Yi (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Design (MDG); 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

SINGERS' ONLINE MARKETING STRATEGIES IN GUANGDONG PROVINCE: HOW TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN A STRONG ONLINE PRESENCE FOR EFFECTIVE MUSIC PROMOTION AND FAN ENGAGEMENT - Feng, Qiuyuan (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
Previous research has explored the development of online music and singers in Guangdong Province; however, there is a gap in understanding how singers establish and maintain a strong online presence through effective online marketing strategies. To fill this gap, this study employs a mixed-methods approach to deeply investigate how Guangdong singers leverage digital platforms for effective music promotion and fan engagement. Online questionnaires were distributed via Xiaohongshu and WeChat, collecting 153 valid responses from fans, which were analyzed to understand interaction methods and their impact on singers. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with three Guangdong singers and one music company employee, and the interview data were thoroughly analyzed.The findings indicate that Guangdong singers utilize specific social media platforms (such as TikTok) to create and share personalized content and establish direct interactions with fans. These strategies are crucial for successful music promotion and fan engagement. In the highly competitive online music market, adopting such targeted digital marketing strategies allows singers to significantly enhance their visibility and fan engagement. This approach not only holds significant importance for the personal development of singers in Guangdong but also has far-reaching implications for the prosperity of the music industry and the creative economy as a whole
Keywords: Guangdong singer; Internet influence; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph; audience engagement; music promotion; online marketing; singer fans

Serpentinization and its implications for ultramafic-hosted sulfide mineralization: A case study at the Tianzuo hydrothermal field, 63.5°E, Southwest Indian Ridge - Ding, Teng; Dias, Ágata Alveirinho; Wang, Jia; Tan, Tingting; Liang, Jin; Wu, Bin; Tao, Chunhui (Marine Geology, 2023)
Reaction of ultramafic rocks with seawater and subsequent serpentinization has been considered one of the most important factors controlling the formation of ultramafic-hosted seafloor massive sulfide (UM-SMS) deposits. However, the mineralization processes responsible for these deposits remain poorly understood, in particular because they are less abundant as compared with their basaltic counterparts. In this work, serpentinites with different alteration grades collected at the Tianzuo hydrothermal field (THF), Southwest Indian Ridge, were studied. Mineralogical and chemical analyses were performed in the secondary opaque minerals resulting from serpentinization to understand the role of this process during the formation of UM-SMS deposits. Our results show that these opaque minerals mainly consist of magnetite, hematite, pentlandite, and minor pyrite, suggestive of high but varying oxygen and sulfur fugacities. The hematite is characterized by an enrichment in Mg, Si, Ni, and Co as compared with magnetite. Pentlandite associated with hematite has elevated and consistent Ni contents as compared with that associated with magnetite. These results indicate that breakdown and decomposition of primary silicate and sulfide minerals during serpentinization has controlled the sources of ore-forming materials. Concentrations of Te are variable and show a positive correlation with Ni in pentlandite associated with magnetite or hematite, suggesting that gabbroic intrusions provided additional material to the hydrothermal system. Oxidation and sulfidation conditions are ideal for the formation of trisulfur ion S3− in THF, which can significantly improve the capability of hydrothermal fluids for leaching ore-forming metals from the wall rocks, promoting the formation of THF. In addition of reduced systems, hydrothermal fluids with high oxygen and sulfur fugacities triggered by extensive seawater infiltration can most likely also develop in ultramafic-hosted systems. These results suggest that the areas with well-developed fractures are promising candidates for further exploration of UM-SMS deposits along mid-oceanic ridges.
Keywords: Opaque minerals; Oxidation and sulfidation; Sulfide mineralization; Tianzuo hydrothermal field; Ultramafic rocks

SenSwave: DRAW YOUR MUSIC BY EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MUSIC, IMAGES, AND EMOTIONS - He, Minghao (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
According to research, it is found that images, music, and emotions are closely related, and integrating visual and tactile elements into the music creation process, combined with auditory experience, can enhance emotional expression and understandability. The results highlight the potential of tangible interfaces in autonomous music creation and promoting emotional well-being. This work aims to explore the intersection of music creation, emotional expression, and technological innovation by creating a unique tangible interface for music. It does this by combining the challenges presented by the complexity of modern music production, the emotional issues faced by today's youth, and bringing a new way of expression to the phonograph technology. It hopes to draw inspiration from the historical significance of the phonograph through visual expression, user experience, and algorithmic music generation technology, and seek to provide a new way of music creation for young people who are creative and curious but not musicians, and provide a new way to express emotions. All things considered, the project demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of combining historical inspiration with modern technology to create innovative solutions for music technology. Furthermore, it is focusing on enhancing the interface design even more and carrying out longitudinal research to assess the long-term effects on emotional expressiveness and user experience. It is also being explored as an artistic installation, hoping to bring more changes and presentation methods and provide users with a more comprehensive and immersive music creation and emotional expression experience
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Interaction design; Interdisciplinary; Music generation; Tangible interface; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Design (MDG); University of Saint Joseph; Well-being Emotional expression

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

Self-perception of primary students with dyslexia in Macao =: 探討澳門小學讀寫困難融合自我探索學習現況及挑戰 - 何素儀 (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Self-Efficacy, Stress and Job Satisfaction among Pre-Service, Novice and Experienced English Teachers: A Study of their Occupational Health - Lam, Stacy; Kuok, A. C. H.; Sze, Tat Ming (Health Psychology Report, 2022)
Background This study aimed to investigate English teachers’ self-efficacy for student engagement, classroom management, instructional strategies and literacy instruction, as well as to discover teacher stress and job satisfaction can play a role in interfering their occupational health (in terms of self-efficacy). In addition, this is one of the first studies to understand the differences in self-efficacy among pre-service, novice and experienced in-service teachers in a Chinese society, where English is positioned as a foreign language. Participants and procedure 271 English teachers (90 pre-service, 181 in-service) with mean teaching experience of 5.57 months for per-service, and 98.51 months for in-service were participated in this quantitative research study, as the targets were not be able to approach randomly, the English teachers were approaching individually though referral sampling, informing that the purpose of the study and receive their consent. Results It discovered both pre-service and novice in-service teachers posses lowest self-efficacy. Moreover, teachers’ stress from classroom predicted their self-efficacy for student engagement and classroom management negatively. On the other hand, teachers’ job satisfaction predicts their self-efficacy for student engagement, instructional strategies and literacy instruction positively. Conclusions Implications (based on the findings) are discussed in order to provide insights for for schools and education departments to strengthen the teachers’ capability of teaching and their occupational health.

Selection for winners impacts the endocrine system in the Siamese fighting fish - Ramos, A.; Gonçalves, D. (General and Comparative Endocrinology, 2022)
In southeast Asia, males of the Siamese fighting fish, Betta splendens, have been selected across centuries for winning paired staged fights and previous work has shown that males from fighter strains are more aggressive than wild-types. This strong directional selection for winners is likely to have targeted aggression-related endocrine systems, and a comparison between fighter and wild-type strains can bring into evidence the key hormones implicated in aggression. Here, we compared the plasma levels of the androgen 11-ketotestosterone (KT) and of the corticosteroid cortisol (F) in F2 males of a fighter and a wild-type strain raised under similar laboratory conditions. We show that F was generally lower in fighter as compared with wild-type males, while no overall differences in KT levels were detected between strains. When presented with a mirror-induced aggressive challenge, post-fight levels of F increased but more significantly so in wild-type males, while KT increased in males of both strains. After the challenge, fighter males had higher levels of KT as compared with wild-type males, while the pattern for F was opposite. As compared with animals in social groups, wild-type males placed under social isolation had lower F levels, while KT decreased for fighters. Taken together, this data suggests that while wild-type males responded to aggression with an increase in circulating levels of both androgens and corticosteroids, males selected for winning fights maintained a blunt F response, increasing only KT levels. These data agree with the hypothesis that a combination of high levels of androgens and low levels of corticosteroids is associated with high aggression. Overall, these results seem to indicate that selection for winning had a stronger impact in the hypothalamus-pituitary-interrenal axis than in the hypothalamus-pituitary–gonadal axis in B. splendens.

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.

Seeing the True Self: A Comparison of Arthur Schopenhauer and Japanese Zen - Ng, Fong Man (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Philosophy; University of Saint Joseph

Sediments in the mangrove areas contribute to the removal of endocrine disrupting chemicals in coastal sediments of Macau SAR, China, and harbour microbial communities capable of degrading E2, EE2, BPA and BPS - Moreira, Irina S.; Lebel, Alexandre; Peng, Xianzhi; Castro, Paula M. L.; Gonçalves, David (Biodegradation, 2021)
The occurrence of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is a major issue for marine and coastal environments in the proximity of urban areas. The occurrence of EDCs in the Pearl River Delta region is well documented but specific data related to Macao is unavailable. The levels of bisphenol-A (BPA), estrone (E1), 17α-estradiol (αE2), 17β-estradiol (E2), estriol (E3), and 17α-ethynylestradiol (EE2) were measured in sediment samples collected along the coastline of Macao. BPA was found in all 45 collected samples with lower BPA concentrations associated to the presence of mangrove trees. Biodegradation assays were performed to evaluate the capacity of the microbial communities of the surveyed ecosystems to degrade BPA and its analogue BPS. Using sediments collected at a WWTP discharge point as inoculum, at a concentration of 2 mg l−1 complete removal of BPA was observed within 6 days, whereas for the same concentration BPS removal was of 95% after 10 days, which is particularly interesting since this compound is considered recalcitrant to biodegradation and likely to accumulate in the environment. Supplementation with BPA improved the degradation of bisphenol-S (BPS). Aiming at the isolation of EDCs-degrading bacteria, enrichments were established with sediments supplied with BPA, BPS, E2 and EE2, which led to the isolation of a bacterial strain, identified as Rhodoccoccus sp. ED55, able to degrade the four compounds at different extents. The isolated strain represents a valuable candidate for bioremediation of contaminated soils and waters.
Keywords: Biodegradation; Bisphenols; EDCs-degrading bacteria; Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs); Estrogens; Mangrove

Santa Claus is not coming to everyone in Macau - Morrison, Keith (Macau Business, 2023)
Macau, Macau Business, MAG, MB, MB Featured, Opinion | Macau Business | December 2023 Keith Morrison – Author and educationist

Sacred and the Everyday: Comparative Approaches to Literature, Religious and Secular - Morgan, Stephen (USJ Press, 2021)

Ritual and the Sacred in Peter Shaffer's Theatre - Phillips, Jenny O. L. (Sacred and the Everyday: Comparative approaches to literature, religious and secular, 2021)

Risk Analysis in Sustainable Buildings' Construction Projects: A Perspective from Macau and Hong Kong - Santos, Eduardo José Piteira Paulo dos (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph

Rewriting Life Story and Career Development: a Case Study Using a Narrative Approach - Choi, Ka Lok (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

Review of Gorard, S. (2020) Getting evidence into education: evaluating the routes to policy and practice - Morrison, Keith (Educational Research and Evaluation, 2020)

Review of Biesta. G. (2020) Educational research: an unorthodox introduction, Educational Research and Evaluation - Morrison, Keith (Educational Research and Evaluation, 2020)

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

Retrieving the Sense of the Sacred: a Paradigm of Silence in the Liturgy - Wong, Lee Chun (USJ Theses and Dissertations, 2021)
Keywords: Catholic Church; Liturgy Theology; Religious aspects Catholic Church; Silence

Resources for Future in a Caring Economy - Gassner, Franz (Menschenrechte und Gerechtigkeit als bleibende Aufgaben, 2020)

Resource estimation of the sulfide-rich deposits of the Yuhuang-1 hydrothermal field on the ultraslow-spreading Southwest Indian Ridge - Yu, Junyu; Tao, Chunhui; Liao, Shili; Dias, Ágata; Liang, Jin; Yang, Weifang; Zhu, Chuanwei (Ore Geology Reviews, 2021)
Seafloor massive sulfide (SMS) deposits are important deep-sea mineral resources expected to occur predominantly on slow- and ultraslow-spreading mid-ocean ridges. Resource estimates are already available for some of the largest SMS deposits on slow-spreading ridges but not on ultraslow-spreading ridges. Based on geological mapping and sampling, this study investigates the distribution and content of sulfide-rich deposits in the Yuhuang-1 hydrothermal field (YHF), located on the ultraslow-spreading Southwest Indian Ridge. The sulfide-rich deposits in the YHF are composed of two areas ∼500 m apart: the southwest sulfide area (SWS) and the northeast sulfide area (NES). We calculated the volume of sulfide-rich mounds in the YHF and arrived at a total accumulation of ∼10.6 × 106 tons, including at least ∼7.5 × 105 tons of copper and zinc and ∼18 tons of gold. Furthermore, considering the coverage of layered hydrothermal sediment mixed with sulfide-rich breccias, which may have underlying massive sulfide deposits, the maximum total mass was estimated at ∼45.1 × 106 tons. This suggests that the YHF is one of the largest SMS deposits worldwide and confirm that ultraslow-spreading ridges have the greatest potential to form large-scale SMS deposits.
Keywords: Resource estimate; Seafloor massive sulfide deposits; Southwest Indian Ridge; Yuhuang-1 hydrothermal field

Research on Quality Control of Intelligent Injection Molding System Based on Process Monitoring - Han, Wang; Shasha, Lv; Shaobin, Li; Wencai, Du; Qinggu, Li; Bo, Wang (2021 8th International Conference on Computational Science/Intelligence and Applied Informatics (CSII), 2021)

Research and Technology Development Achievements During the COVID-19 Pandemic—An Overview - Marques, João Alexandre Lobo; Fong, Simon James; Li, G.; Arraut, Ivan; Gois, F. Nauber Bernardo; Neto, José Xavier (Epidemic Analytics for Decision Supports in COVID19 Crisis, 2022)
At the beginning of 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) started a coordinated global effort to counterattack the potential exponential spread of the SARS-Cov2 virus, responsible for the coronavirus disease, officially named COVID-19. This comprehensive initiative included a research roadmap published in March 2020, including nine dimensions, from epidemiological research to diagnostic tools and vaccine development. With an unprecedented case, the areas of study related to the pandemic received funds and strong attention from different research communities (universities, government, industry, etc.), resulting in an exponential increase in the number of publications and results achieved in such a small window of time. Outstanding research cooperation projects were implemented during the outbreak, and innovative technologies were developed and improved significantly. Clinical and laboratory processes were improved, while managerial personnel were supported by a countless number of models and computational tools for the decision-making process. This chapter aims to introduce an overview of this favorable scenario and highlight a necessary discussion about ethical issues in research related to the COVID-19 and the challenge of low-quality research, focusing only on the publication of techniques and approaches with limited scientific evidence or even practical application. A legacy of lessons learned from this unique period of human history should influence and guide the scientific and industrial communities for the future.
Keywords: COVID-19; Research cooperation; Research ethics; Scientific research; Technology development

Resale value of used electric vehicles-based on consumer perception in Zhuhai area - Lu, Yueying (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
China leads in global automobile production and sales, but fuel vehicle usage causes energy crisis and pollution. Electric vehicles, as energy-saving and environmentally friendly transportation, can alleviate urban ecological pressure and reduce dependence on non-renewable energy. Development of electric vehicles is thus prioritized. However, the current electric vehicle market is immature and faces slow growth due to various constraints. Despite state policies, market performance lags, and consumer acceptance is low, leading to a mismatch between praise and sales. Therefore, exploring factors influencing consumer demand and purchase intention for electric vehicles is crucial. This paper focuses on consumer perceived value to study factors affecting second-hand electric vehicle resale value, offering practical relevance and value. Consumer behavior theory suggests that consumers' purchase decisions hinge on their perception of a product. Consumer perception involves a subjective, overall evaluation of a product or service based on usage purposes and needs, and an analysis of relevant information from various channels. For used electric vehicles, perception includes understanding of appearance, function, cost, and performance.This study aims to analyze factors affecting the resale value of used EVs and explore consumers' perception of this value. Guided by consumer perception, the study conducted a literature review-based comprehensive analysis and qualitative exploration of used EV resale value. The findings reveal that price, battery performance, endurance, environmental protection, and safety significantly impact the resale value of used EVs. Finally, combined with the research conclusions of this paper, management suggestions are put forward, and countermeasures are summarized from the two levels of government and second-hand electric vehicle marketing enterprises
Keywords: Resale value of used electric vehicles; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph; Zhuhai area; consumer perception

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.

Replication research in education: a guide to designing, conducting and analysing studies - Morrison, Keith (Routledge, 2022)
"Providing an overview of key issues in theory and practice, Replication Research in Education is designed to identify and discuss the benefits and challenges facing replication studies in education. Both clear and practical, this ground-breaking volume covers how to introduce, develop, conduct, report and discuss these studies, and the issues they raise for policy and practice. Bridging theory and practice, this book considers what replication research should look like, how it should be conducted and how to judge when it has been successful. It enables researchers to plan and conduct studies successfully, from their earliest stages through to completion. This key text: brings together in a single volume, existing issues, claims and counter-claims, discourses and practices of replication introduces, covers, and extends this field of research, indicating its possibilities and limits expands and adds to existing discussions and practices will enable researchers to design, conduct, evaluate and critique studies. The comprehensive and exhaustive coverage of issues and practices within Replication Research in Education make it a "must read" for all novice and experienced educational researchers who are considering, conducting, and reviewing replication studies in education"--

Replacement or plume fallout? Both, please! Evidence from active and fossil VMS systems - Relvas, J M R S; Barriga, F; Pinto, A; Marques, A F; Carvalho, J; Dias, A Á (16th SGA Biennial Meeting 2022, 2022)

Remote Learning's Impact on Students' Cognitive Development: Evidence from Time Series Assessment [Conference presentation] - Wu, Hao; Molnár, Gyöngyvér (EARLI SIG1 Conference 2024, 2024)
Remote Learning's Impact on Students' Cognitive Development: Evidence from Time Series Assessment [Conference presentation]

Religious Vows in their Mystic and Prophetic Dimensions - Gallares, Judette (Religious Life Asia, 2022)

Religious Epistemology in Analytic Theology - McNabb, Tyler Dalton; Baldwin, Erik (T&T Clark Handbook of Analytic Theology, 2021)

Relationships among critical thinking disposition components of Chinese undergraduates: A moderated mediating effect analysis - Zhao, Yangyintao; Liu, Yong; Wu, Hao (International Journal of Educational Research, 2024)
Critical thinking (CT), as a form of higher-order thinking, is intended to help individuals form reasonable reflection and judgment to deal with increasingly severe employment situations. As the primary workforce in the labor market, undergraduates must possess a strong critical thinking disposition (CTD) to make better use of CT. Despite extensive research on components of CTD from the perspective of educational practices, there is limited emphasis on investigating the components and their relationships of CTD in the labor market and the impact of gender differences. Therefore, this study presented an analysis of 1535 Chinese undergraduates (Mage = 20.89; SD = 1.43) using the Employer-Employee-Supported Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (2ES-CTDI), aiming to explore the CTD that undergraduates should possess before entering the labor market. The relationships among the components were examined using SmartPLS4.0 in conjunction with Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Additionally, a multigroup analysis (PLS-MGA) with a measurement invariance (MI) test was conducted to validate the moderating effects of gender. The findings indicate that (a) self-efficacy has a significant negative effect on habitual truth-digging, and boys are more affected than girls, instant judgment plays a competitive partial mediating role in this relationship; (b) self-efficacy has a significant positive effect on instant judgment, and boys are more likely to make instant judgments than girls; (c) instant judgment significantly positively affects habitual truth-digging. These findings highlight the dynamic equilibrium among the internal components of CTD in the labor market and call for increased attention from educators to the importance of gender differences in the cultivation process.
Keywords: Critical thinking disposition; Labor Market; Moderated mediation; Undergraduates

Relationship Between the Academic Achievement and Extra-curricular Tutoring of Primary Students: Perspectives From the Parents = 課外補習與小學生學業成績之間的關係----來自家長的視角 - Vong, Sok Kuan (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Education (MED); University of Saint Joseph

Relationship between Student Teachers' Beliefs and Practices on Early Chinese Literacy Instruction - Sun, Chunrong; Ho, Ka Lee Carrie (Universal Journal of Educational Research, 2023)
This study explores the relationship between student teachers' beliefs and practices in early Chinese literacy instruction. Semi-structured interviews, classroom observation, and document analysis were conducted with six student teachers during their teaching practices. Findings indicated that the student teachers believed explicitly teaching literacy skills and imperceptible acquisition of literacy abilities through communication and meaning-making processes are essential in Chinese early literacy learning. However, they mainly taught Chinese literacy skills in their practices, which means the student teachers still needed to practice what they preached fully. The study suggests that possible reasons for the discrepancies include 'direct teaching' and 'rote learning' might be much easier for student teachers to design and conduct a lesson. Student teachers have limited abilities and experiences in conducting an ideal lesson, and the kindergarten curriculum and onsite supervisors highly influenced their teaching practices. The findings from this study suggested that more operational activities (such as designing lesson plans and conducting micro-teaching) should be used during pre-service training. Furthermore, the communication of educational beliefs between the university supervisor and the onsite supervisor should be strengthened.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PSYCHOLOGICAL CONTRACT FULFILLMENT, WORK ENGAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOR, AND ABUSIVE SUPERVISION OF EMPLOYEES IN MACAU SIX GAMING AND INTEGRATED RESORTS - U, Weng Ian (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
In Macau, gaming is a pillar industry. The job performance of the employees is a determining factor for gaming and integrated resorts’ ability to improve their competitiveness in an evolving environment. Therefore, organizational behavior is an important topic for gaming and integrated resorts. In view of social exchange theory, this study takes the employees of the six gaming and integrated resorts in Macau as sampling. The study would be overviewing how psychological contract fulfillment affects their organizational citizenship behavior in the organization, and relationship between work engagement and their abusive supervision in the six gaming and integrated resorts employees in the Macau gaming and related industry. This study takes psychological contract fulfillment as the independent variable, organizational citizenship behavior as the dependent variable, work engagement as the mediating variable, abusive supervision as the moderating variable. Data was collected through random online questionnaire research method and 257 valid questionnaires were obtained. SPSS statistical software applied for reliability and validity analysis, Pearson correlation and regression analysis. The conclusions are listed in following: (1) Psychological contract fulfillment has a partial positive impact on organizational citizenship behavior ; (2) Psychological contract fulfillment has a partial positive impact on work engagement; (3) Work engagement has a positive impact on organizational citizenship behavior; (4) Work engagement has a positive mediating effect between psychological contract fulfillment and organizational citizenship behavior; (5) Abusive supervision has no moderating effect between psychological contract fulfillment and work engagement; (6) Abusive supervision has no moderating effect between work engagement and organizational citizenship behavior
Keywords: Abusive Supervision; Organizational Citizenship Behavior; Psychological Contract Fulfillment; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Organisational Psychology (MOP); University of Saint Joseph; Work Engagement

Relações entre o pós-digital e o complexo industrial do capitalismo: reformulações sobre a tecnologia como ideologia e lixo digital na arte - Paquete, Hugo; Fernandes-Marcos, Adérito; Bastos, Paulo Bernardino (AVANCA | CINEMA, 2021)
This essay presents a mapping of the historical concepts that contributed to the emergence of post-digital aesthetics and their connections to the concept of post-media in historical terms. It also analyzes the transition from techno-positivism to discourse of resistance against the effects of the capital technological industrial complex and how these advances in technology influence artistic discourses, practices and are the leverage of art and technology which is nothing more than a representation of the aesthetics of capital. Following art and capitalism as an ideology of innovation. Is proposed an unstinting theory about technology, geology, and the importance of these conditions to the post-digital aesthetics in terms of material disponible and conceptual articulation. Producing a reconfiguration of the post-digital conceptual approach as I propose beyond the dysfunctional aesthetics and connected with the concept of radical ecology centered in the usability of electronic garbage and technical obsolescent technologies in the arts.

Reframing the Urban Edge - Design Strategies for Macau x Zhuhai Waterfront - Soares, Nuno (The Greater Bay Area Urban Design Conference, 2020)

Redefining Macau's Film Industry: Case Studies on local Film Marketing & Distribution - Choi Chi Cheng (University of Saint Joseph, 2022)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Communication and Media (MCM); University of Saint Joseph

Reciprocity in a school-university partnership project: Towards a Macau-based Give-Get Model - Chu, K. W.; Mak, M. C. K.; Ng, M. H.; Wong, U. W. K.; Cheng, P. W.; Tse, T. P. M.; Ho, G. W. S (The IV Uniservitate Global Symposium 2023, 2023)

Recent Progress in the Discovery and Design of Antimicrobial Peptides Using Traditional Machine Learning and Deep Learning - Yan, Jielu; Cai, Jianxiu; Zhang, Bob; Wang, Yapeng; Wong, Derek F.; Siu, Shirley W. I. (Antibiotics, 2022)
Antimicrobial resistance has become a critical global health problem due to the abuse of conventional antibiotics and the rise of multi-drug-resistant microbes. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are a group of natural peptides that show promise as next-generation antibiotics due to their low toxicity to the host, broad spectrum of biological activity, including antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and anti-parasitic activities, and great therapeutic potential, such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, etc. Most importantly, AMPs kill bacteria by damaging cell membranes using multiple mechanisms of action rather than targeting a single molecule or pathway, making it difficult for bacterial drug resistance to develop. However, experimental approaches used to discover and design new AMPs are very expensive and time-consuming. In recent years, there has been considerable interest in using in silico methods, including traditional machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) approaches, to drug discovery. While there are a few papers summarizing computational AMP prediction methods, none of them focused on DL methods. In this review, we aim to survey the latest AMP prediction methods achieved by DL approaches. First, the biology background of AMP is introduced, then various feature encoding methods used to represent the features of peptide sequences are presented. We explain the most popular DL techniques and highlight the recent works based on them to classify AMPs and design novel peptide sequences. Finally, we discuss the limitations and challenges of AMP prediction.
Keywords: antimicrobial peptide; classification; deep learning; machine learning; medicine; regression; therapeutic peptide

Reawakening Macanese identity: the impact of Chinese outbound tourism - Lou, Lai-Chu Ivy; Xie, Philip Feifan (Journal of Policy Research in Tourism, Leisure and Events, 2020)
The purpose of this paper examines the potential role of Chinese outbound tourism as a catalyst of change for the Macanese identity. There is an emerging trend to have a new identity amongst Macanese residents to valorize cultural and heritage assets. By using Bourdieu’s concept of habitus, it proposes that the social media space is built to voice concerns of language, place attachment and induced public participation. The study utilizes a mixed method approach comprising a survey for netizens and content analysis of online discussions, in order to fully understand changes due to Chinese outbound tourism.
Keywords: China; Identity; Macau; linguistic sensitivity; place attachment; public participation

Re-thinking Chinese Ecumene in the Global Age - Duraj, Jaroslaw (Eric Voegelin’s Asian Political Thought, 2020)
The rise of Asia in global affairs has forced western thinkers to rethink their assumptions, theories, and conclusions about the region. Eric Voegelin’s Asian Political Thought brings together a mixture of established and rising scholars from both Asia and the West to reflect upon the political philosopher’s thought about China, Japan, Korea, Central Asia, and India. From Voegelin’s writings, readers will not only understand how Voegelin’s approach can illuminate the fundamental principles and issues about Asia but also what are the challenges and possibilities that Asia offers in the twentieth-first century. For those who want to move past the superficial commentary and clichés about Asia, Eric Voegelin’s Asian Political Thought is the book for you.

Re-experiencing Street Signage with Augmented Reality around the City of Macau - Lio, Si Weng; Martins de Abreu, F. (11th International Conference on Digital and Interactive Arts (ARTECH2023), 2023)

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.

Quantification of insecticides in commercial seafood sold in East Asian markets: risk assessment for consumers - Ivorra, Lucia; Cardoso, Patricia G.; Chan, Shek Kiu; Cruzeiro, Catarina; Tagulao, Karen (Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 2023)
The extraction of 21 insecticides and 5 metabolites was performed using an optimized and validated QuEChERS protocol that was further used for the quantification (GC–MS/MS) in several seafood matrices (crustaceans, bivalves, and fish-mudskippers). Seven species, acquired from Hong Kong and Macao wet markets (a region so far poorly monitored), were selected based on their commercial importance in the Indo-Pacific region, market abundance, and affordable price. Among them, mussels from Hong Kong, together with mudskippers from Macao, presented the highest insecticide concentrations (median values of 30.33 and 23.90 ng/g WW, respectively). Residual levels of fenobucarb, DDTs, HCHs, and heptachlors were above the established threshold (10 ng/g WW) for human consumption according to the European and Chinese legislations: for example, in fish-mudskippers, DDTs, fenobucarb, and heptachlors (5-, 20- and tenfold, respectively), and in bivalves, HCHs (fourfold) had higher levels than the threshold. Risk assessment revealed potential human health effects (e.g., neurotoxicity), especially through fish and bivalve consumption (non-carcinogenic risk; ΣHQLT > 1), and a potential concern of lifetime cancer risk development through the consumption of fish, bivalves, and crustaceans collected from these markets (carcinogenic risk; ΣTCR > 10–4). Since these results indicate polluted regions, where the seafood is collected/produced, a strict monitoring framework should be implemented in those areas to improve food quality and safety of seafood products.
Keywords: Bivalves; Crustaceans; Health risk assessment; Mudskippers; Organochlorine pesticides

Quality of life during the pandemic: a cross sectional study about attitude, individual perspective and behavior change affecting general population in daily life - Khatoon, F.; Kumar, M.; Khalid, A. A.; Alshammari, A. D.; Khan, F.; Alshammari, R. D.; Balouch, Z.; Verma, D.; Mishra, P.; Abotaleb, M.; Makarovskikh, T.; El-kenawy, E. M.; et al. (2022)
Quality of life in general population before and during pandemic is topic need to be address by researcher in terms of mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression. The study was carried out among Saudi population. Data were collected from general population using questionnaire during the period from 22 August 2021 to 10th January 2022. As a result, total 214 participants have included in this study. Among them prevalent age group include 40 years (n= 63, 29.4%) shadowed by the age group 25-35 (n= 61, 28.5%) while above 60 years group were least frequent (n= 1, 0.5%). On questioning the applicants whether they were satisfied with their health and how would they rate their quality of life, their answers were as follows: yes, or satisfied (n= 86, 40.2%), very Satisfied (n= 102, 47.7%) Dissatisfied (n= 11, 5.1%) and neither satisfied nor dissatisfied (n= 15, 7%). Due to pandemic, they were rate quality of life very good (n= 94, 43.9%), good (n= 63, 29.4 %) poor (n= 5, 2.3 %) and neither good and nor poor (n= 52, 24.3 %). During pandemic 96 participants feel no change in their weight but 110 participants respond that there is increase in coffee intake during the pandemic. Similarly increased in smoking habits and decrease rate in social activities (n=119,41.4%). The psychosomatic well-being of people has been interrupted by disturbing their social activities during pandemic.

Quality of Life and Wellbeing of the Foreign Communities in Macao - Mohr, Silvia Isabel (University of Saint Joseph, 2020)
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

Quality Detection Method for Controller Process Based on Mask R-CNN Network Model - Ma, Xinlei; Chen, Yanyu; Li, Shaobin; Du, Wencai; Tan, Zehan; Li, Qinggu; Ma, Yaqi; Deng, Haiyan (2021 8th International Conference on Computational Science/Intelligence and Applied Informatics (CSII), 2021)

Public Matters: Identity, Design, and Placemaking in Macau’s Inner Harbou - Soares, Nuno (Making Place in the Greater Bay Area International Symposium, 2021)

PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF BASIC FAMILY RELATIONS INVENTORY (BFRI) IN MACAO - Chan, Kuai Ian (University of Saint Joseph, 2024)
By discussing various aspects of family functioning, including the intricate nature of family functioning, family dynamics’ impact on adolescent growth and lifelong development, and the COVID-19’s effects on family relationships, it reveals the importance and necessity of assessment instruments in the field of family counselling. And concerning the gap between family research and clinical practice as well as the absence of a singular tool capable of evaluating various family functions comprehensively in the Macao context, the study introduced the Basic Family Relations Inventory (BFRI; or ‘Cuestionario de Evaluación de las Relaciones Familiares Básicas’, CERFB), a self-reported questionnaire based on Linares’ Basic Family Relations Theory. This valuable tool consists of 25 items, assessing simultaneously the quality of family relationships in two basic dimensions—marital and parental functioning. This study aimed to develop the Chinese version of the BFRI and investigate its psychometric properties in the context of Macao. By employing a quantitative research approach, it evaluated the normal distribution, exploratory factor analysis and reliability of the BFRI in a non-clinical snowball and convenience sample of 165 participants with at least one biological child from 12 to 18 years old. In the exploratory factor analysis, the initial factor extraction resulted in four components, reflecting both marital and parental items. This suggested potential overlap and interconnectedness between the marital and parental subsystems. Subsequent analysis identified a three-factor solution, separating marital, negative parental, and positive parental components. This aligned with the factor structure of the original Spanish version of the BFRI. A two-factor solution was also explored, replicating findings from the previous Italian and Portuguese validation of the BFRI despite some inconsistencies in item alignment. The EFA results revealed that the three-factor structure of the Chinese version of the BFRI was the best fitting model for the Macao population. Reliability analysis, assessed through Cronbach’s alpha, indicated satisfactory internal consistency of the scales. The results of the analyses demonstrate promising psychometric properties, supporting the tool’s effectiveness in assessing marital and parental relationships in a Macao population. The study contributed to the development of the valuable family assessment instrument. It suggested that the Chinese version of the BFRI could serve as a useful instrument to concurrently assess the quality of marital and parental relationships and systematically collect the data of family functioning in both dimensions. It’s also believed that this instrument could benefit the evaluation of family dynamics and comprehension of family relations not only in family research studies, but also in counselling intervention and clinical therapy, preventing risks to the health of children as well as promoting healthy family contexts in Macao
Keywords: Basic Family Relations Inventory (BFRI); Marital relationship; Parental relationship; Psychometric properties; Thesis and Dissertations Master of Couselling and Psychotherapy (MCP); University of Saint Joseph

Psychometric properties of a Chinese version of the Constructivist Learning Environment Survey among secondary-school students in Hong Kong - Kwan, Yee Wan (Learning Environments Research, 2020)
The study examined the factor structure, reliability and validity of a Chinese version of the Constructivist Learning Environment Survey (C-CLES), an instrument for assessing students’ perceptions of the extent of constructivist approaches prevalent in classrooms. A convenience sample of 967 students in Secondary Three (Grade 9) in Hong Kong participated in this study by completing a self-administered questionnaire in their class time. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported the hypothesised factor structure, indicating five theoretical constructivist environment dimensions that showed goodness-of-fit to 25 items: Personal Relevance, Uncertainty, Critical Voice, Shared Control, and Student Negotiation. Criterion-related validity, involving evidence based on relations to other variables, was assessed by correlations between the constructivist environment dimensions and cognitive strategies and academic ability. Most correlations were statistically significant and in the positive direction. The C-CLES with 25 items provides a useful measure for educational practice and research among school students.
Keywords: Cognitive outcomes; Constructivist learning environment; Secondary schools; Validation

Promoting Future Elderly Social Participation In Macau: An exploratory Analysis - Leong Kai Chong; Ho, Jacky (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
"The purpose of the research aimed to explore the challenges and future possiblities of ways of promoting elderly social participation in Macau. As lack of related research has been conduted in Macau, this community services and government policies and to provide suggestions for improving the direction of sustainable development and future possible research topics in this area. The research adopts a qualitative and phenomenological approach to explore the current situations, difficulties and ideas through the industry experience and insights. Nine in-depth interviews with 9 representatives of elderly social service providers subsidised by Macau SAR Government from late April to July 2022 in Macau. The content analysis using open coding to collect inductive data. Throughout themetic analysis identified by four levels: individials, community and social services, governmental policies and infrastructures. Overall, the study found that the autonomy trend of future social participation of the elderly in Macao is enhanced by education and self-health concerns and they are more independent, but the participation of male elders and female elders is unbalanced. Social service providers for the elderly provide a large number of repetitive services and are too passive and dependent on government policies andsupport, resulting in a lack of innovative thinking. The infrastructure design promoted by the government does not consider the continuous health and activity development of the elderly. This study looks at the ability of the elderly in Macau to continue to develop their strengths in the future, and suggests the need to strengthen individual retirement life planning and development for the elderly, personal health monitoring improvement, diversification of social services, elderly-led community programs, private social enterprise capital, and elderly volunteering The urgency of the number of elderly people, more practical and effective elderly inclusive urban planning."
Keywords: Thesis and Dissertations Master of Community Development (MCD); University of Saint Joseph

PROJECT MANAGEMENT ADOPTION AND MATURITY LEVEL IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY OF MACAU AND HENGQIN - Wong, Ka Seng (University of Saint Joseph, 2023)
Projects are tactical and operational initiatives, and achieving specific outcomes through projects can help organizations achieve strategic goals. The effective use of project management tools and techniques is essential to achieve successful results, since the goal is to maximize the realization of the project's plan by effectively using the budget, time, and resources provided by the project owner to achieve the project's original purpose. The Project Management Maturity Model (PMMM) is a tool for measuring project management capabilities and is essential to improve project and portfolio performance in different industries. The main objective of this research is to analyze and characterize the maturity level and capacity of the IT industry in Macau and HengQin based on the assessment of the PMMM. The research also aims to assess and compare the maturity level in the IT industry in Macau and HengQin. An online survey was conducted and sent to IT project managers from Macau and HenqQin. A total of 34 responses were collected, divided into 3 different parts: Part I - General Information, Part II - Project Management Areas, and Part III - Perception. The results indicate that, in general, Project Managers state that their companies do not follow Project Management standards and best practices, classifying as Low and Very Low essential PM areas such as Planning and Scheduling (68%), Scope (61%) and Communications (64%). From a comparison perspective, project managers in Macau follow less formal frameworks than Hengqin in managing the triple constraints of the project. The collected data also indicate that Macau's communication management and stakeholder engagement are less mature than Hengqin's. Furthermore, the data indicate that maturity level is not necessarily related to education level, which means not higher education has a higher maturity level. Recommendations are provided for the IT industry in both areas, and specific comments are provided for each group or professionals. In conclusion, this work allows a novel characterization and a better understanding of the Project Management adoption and maturity level of the IT Industry in Macau and Hengqin
Keywords: Theses and Dissertations Master of Business Administration (MBA); University of Saint Joseph; information technology; maturity level; project management; project management maturity model; project maturity assessment