Japan’s Quasi-Alliance Strategy:Motivations,Practices and Constraints

The quasi-alliance strategy is part of the national security strategy and lies in the grey area between alliance and neutrality.1 In recent years,major countries,including Japan,have positioned quasi-alliance as a feasible unwritten option in their respective national security strategies.2 Japan’s quasialliance strategy was already in its infancy when former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe first came to power in September 2006 but was put on hold after his resignation in September 2007.

The Dynamic Interplay Between Language Motivation and English Speaking Fluency:Implications for Effective Teaching Strategies

In this study,we aim to investigate the reciprocal influence between language motivation and English speaking fluency among language learners,and to draw implications for effective teaching methodologies.By analyzing multiple cases of language learners in conjunction with relevant theories and practical insights,the study uncovers a dynamic correlation between language motivation and speaking fluency.The research findings indicate that heightened language motivation can positively impact learners’speaking fluency,while improved oral skills,in turn,bolster learners’language confidence and motivation.Building on these insights,the study proposes impactful teaching approaches,such as cultivating learners’enthusiasm for language acquisition,providing diverse opportunities for oral practice,and fostering active engagement in language communication.These strategies are designed to enhance language motivation and speaking fluency among learners,offering valuable guidance and reference for educators.

Labor Motivation and Its Influence on Workers’Productivity-A Secondary Publication

The productivity of an institution is achieved,in large part,by creating a harmonious environment that reflects the satisfaction,empowerment,and collaborative spirit of each employee.From this perspective,management will consider upgrades using all tactics that allow for the achievement of these goals,including direct effort and the involvement of all stakeholders.The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between work motivation and the productivity of workers in the communal board of the Barrio Sur corregimiento in the province of Colón.Using the questionnaire as an instrument,as well as the descriptive method,allowed for the report and evaluation of the characteristics of the workers,indicating interpersonal deficits and distancing in the motivations that drive administrative action.By incorporating different approaches previously analyzed and developed by different authors familiar with the subject,it was possible to achieve substantial results,such as the need to implement administrative strategies that harmoniously incorporate workers,showing that,despite motivation problems,the work environment where one works is very important in the performance of their duties.Managing to motivate the direct participation of the workers selected as part of the sample,who showed full satisfaction with the results framed within the framework of individual improvement and,above all,the commitment to the institution to improve its work.

A Study on the Relationship between English Learning Motivation and Learning Effect

In order to explore the relationship between college students’English learning motivation and learning effect,this paper uses a questionnaire survey to investigate and analyze the English classroom learning motivation of first-year non-English majors.Based on the final English score,the paper analyzes the correlation between English learning motivation and learning effect.

The European Political Community:Establishment,Motivation and Prospect

The European Political Community(EPC)is a forum-like institution established by the European countries out of their geopolitical needs and to overcome the dilemma of EU enlargement after the outbreak of Ukraine crisis.It has held three summit meetings so far in Prague on 6 October 2022,Burboac on 1 June 2023 and Granada on 5 October 2023 respectively.

Cooperation between EU and India: Motivations and Constraints

In recent years,the EU and India have increased interactions and deepened their cooperation in political,economic and security fields.Amid the backdrop of intensifying great-power rivalry between China and the US and the security confrontation between the US and Russia,the growing ties between the EU and India,as two important forces in the looming multipolar world,will significantly impact the evolution of the international geopolitical structure and China’s external strategic environment.

A Study on Organizational Commitment,Work Motivation,and Job Performance After the COVID-19 Epidemic in Taiwan-The Mediating Effects of Work Motivation and Organizational Communication

The purpose of this study is to explore the correlation between organizational commitment and job performance among employees in Taiwan Residents companies after the COVID-19 epidemic,and to use work motivation and organizational communication as intermediary variables to further understand the interaction between them.Using hierarchical multiple regression analysis and bootstrap method to analyze,the research results show that organizational commitment has a significant positive impact on work motivation and work performance,and work motivation also has a significant positive impact on work performance.In addition,organizational communication has a mediating effect on organizational commitment and work motivation,and work motivation also has a mediating effect on organizational commitment and work machine performance.The results of this study hope to understand the working conditions of organizations and employees after the COVID-19 epidemic,and provide relevant business operators with follow-up references for their operations.

Exploring the motivation and barriers that nurses experience when enrolling for a Master’s in emergency and disaster nursing

Background:There is a growing interest in postgraduate nursing education in Saudi Arabia,including the availability of Master’s and PhD degrees in nursing.Consequently,various specialized studies in nursing have emerged,such as the Master’s in emergency and disaster nursing.However,only a limited number of studies have been conducted in Saudi Arabia to explore the factors that can have a positive or negative impact on a Master’s program from the students’perspective.Furthermore,no studies have investigated the motivation and barriers encountered by registered nurses when it comes to enrolling in a Master’s program in emergency and disaster nursing at Taif University.Methods:A qualitative descriptive approach was employed for this study.A total of 12 postgraduate nurses who had successfully obtained a Master’s degree in emergency and disaster nursing from Taif University participated in the research.Results:Two themes emerged from the analysis.The first theme centered around the motivation to enroll in the Master’s degree program,which encompassed the desire to improve knowledge and skills,enhance self-learning abilities,and achieve financial advancement.The second theme focused on the barriers faced when enrolling in the Master’s program,which included challenging admission criteria and requirements,high program costs,and difficulties in obtaining scholarships.Conclusions:This study identified several motivations and barriers related to the enrollment in a Master’s program in emergency and disaster nursing at Taif University.Therefore,it is recommended that efforts be made to increase financial support and facilitate fellowships to support students in their pursuit of this program.

Motivations and Impacts of the ROK’s Deepening Relations with NATO

In June 2022,President of the Republic of Korea(ROK)Yoon Suk-yeol,only one month into his office,attended the summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization(NATO)in Madrid,the first time for the country’s head of state,and announced the establishment of a permanent mission to NATO on the occasion.

Discussion on Using Classroom Teaching in Satisfying Students’Emotional Needs and Stimulating Their Interest in Learning

The English Curriculum Standards particularly emphasize that“we should pay attention to the emotions of each student,cultivate their interest in learning English,help them build a sense of achievement and self-confidence in learning,and enable them to develop comprehensive language-using capabilities,improve humanistic qualities,enhance practical skills,and cultivate a spirit of innovation in the learning process.”The foreign language learning process is an information-processing process in which both subjective and objective factors play a great influence.Subjective factors are factors related to the quality of the informant himself,such as cognitive factors,affective factors,and age influence,among which the influence and role of affective factors on foreign language information cannot be ignored.In the teaching process,it is required that teachers use the knowledge of pedagogical psychology for the in-depth understanding of the students and their psychological and emotional needs,and attempt to satisfy them,so that they can have positive emotions and feelings.

Challenges and Motivating Factors of Orthodontic Treatment among Patients Attending Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital

Background: Orthodontic treatment poses challenges such as discomfort, aesthetic concerns, dietary restrictions, time commitment, and financial considerations for patients. These challenges can deter individuals from pursuing treatment or cause anxiety during the process. However, patients are motivated by the desire to improve their appearance, boost self-confidence, and enhance oral health. They also value the long-term benefits of treatment, including improved dental function and overall well-being. Professional recommendations from dentists and orthodontists, along with social support from family and friends, further encourage patients to undergo treatment. Understanding these challenges and motivating factors is crucial for orthodontic professionals to tailor treatment plans and ensure positive experiences and successful outcomes for their patients. Objective: To determine the challenges and motivating factors of orthodontic treatment among patients attending Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital. Method: The study was conducted at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi, Ghana, with a sample size of 60 orthodontic patients. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS software. Ethical approval was obtained, and the findings were shared with stakeholders. Results: Findings showed a higher representation of females (63.3%) seeking orthodontic treatment. Common motivations for seeking orthodontic treatment included aesthetic Concerns (38.2%), misaligned teeth (28.1%) and recommendation from dentist (19.2%). Challenges reported included pain and discomfort (36.7%), difficulty chewing (15%), expensive treatment (14.4%) and missed appointments (11.7%). Factors motivating treatment continuation were visible improvements (30%), achieving optimal results (23%), reducing pain and discomfort (17%). External influences, such as family pressure, also played a role. Patients appreciated the support of healthcare providers during treatment but suggested better pain management and education. Conclusion: The study provided valuable insights into patient motivations, challenges and factors influencing satisfaction and adherence to orthodontic treatment at KATH.

Exploring influences and risk of bias of studies on return to sport and work after lateral ankle sprain:A systematic review and metaanalysis

BACKGROUND Lateral ankle sprains are the most common traumatic musculoskeletal injuries of the lower extremity,with an incidence rate of 15%-20%.The high incidence and prevalence highlights the economic impact of this injury.Ankle sprains lead to a high socioeconomic burden due to the combination of the high injury incidence and high medical expenses.Up to 40%of patients who suffer from an ankle sprain develop chronic ankle instability.Chronic instability can lead to prolonged periods of pain,immobility and injury recurrence.Identification of factors that influence return to work(RTW)and return to sports(RTS)after a lateral ankle sprain(LAS)may help seriously reduce healthcare costs.AIM To explore which factors may potentially affect RTW and RTS after sustaining an LAS.METHODS EMBASE and PubMed were systematically searched for relevant studies published until June 2023.Inclusion criteria were as follows:(1)Injury including LAS or chronic ankle instability;(2)Described any form of treatment;(3)Assessment of RTW or RTS;(4)Studies published in English;and(5)Study designs including randomized controlled clinical trials,clinical trials or cohort studies.Exclusion criteria were:(1)Studies involving children(age<16 year);or(2)Patients with concomitant ankle injury besides lateral ankle ligament damage.A quality assessment was performed for each of the included studies using established risk of bias tools.Additionally quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADEpro tool in cases where outcomes were included in the quantitative analysis.A best evidence synthesis was performed in cases of qualitative outcome analysis.For all studied outcomes suitable for quantitative analysis a forest plot was created to calculate the effect on RTW and RTS.RESULTS A total of 8904 patients were included in 21 studies,10 randomized controlled trials,7 retrospective cohort studies and 4 prospective cohort studies.Fifteen studies were eligible for meta-analysis.The overall RTS rate ranged were 80%and 83%in the all treatments pool and surgical treatments pool,respectively.The pooled mean days to RTS ranged from 23-93 d.The overall RTW rate was 89%.The pooled mean time to RTW ranged from 5.8-8.1 d.For patients with chronic ankle instability,higher preoperative motivation was the sole factor significantly and independently(P=0.001)associated with the rate of and time to RTS following ligament repair or reconstruction.Higher body mass index was identified as a significant factor(P=0.04)linked to not resuming sports or returning at a lower level(median 24,range 20-37),compared to those who resumed at the same or higher level(median 23,range 17-38).Patients with a history of psychological illness or brain injury,experienced a delay in their rehabilitation process for sprains with fractures and unspecified sprains.The extent of the delayed rehabilitation was directly proportional to the increased likelihood of experiencing a recurrence of the ankle sprain and the number of ankle-related medical visits.We also observed that 10%of athletes who did return to sport after lateral ankle sprain without fractures described non-ankle-related reasons for not returning.CONCLUSION All treatments yielded comparable results,with each treatment potentially offering unique advantages or benefits.Preoperative motivation may influence rehabilitation after LAS.Grading which factor had a greater impact was not possible due to the lack of comparability among the included patients.

Barriers and Motivators of Young Dutch Elite Athletes for Optimizing Their Nutritional Intake

Many young elite athletes do not meet their daily energy and nutrient requirements. However, little research has been done on why these athletes do not meet their daily needs. The aim was to research the barriers and motivators of young Dutch elite athletes to optimize their nutritional intake. Quantitative and qualitative research was conducted among 8 handball and 4 volleyball players at the Dutch National Sports Center (17.2 ± 0.8 years). First, the nutritional intake was tracked through food diaries and analyzed in Nutritics. Thereupon, five semi-structured interviews based on the COM-B model were carried out. The interviews were transcribed and coded. The athletes had a reduced intake of energy, carbohydrates, vitamins A, C, E, D, calcium, potassium, zinc, and iron compared to their requirements. Seven themes for optimizing their nutritional intake emerged in the interviews: needs assessment, practical translation, portion size, lack of time, involvement, individuality, and food distribution. Barriers that the athletes experienced were that they did not know what their total daily nutritional needs were and how this translates into practice. In addition, the portion size at dinner was too small. They also had little time to eat a full meal due to time pressure from training and school. On the other hand, motivators were receiving meal options to translate their needs into practice with a distribution of moments when they need to eat. Covering these topics in nutritional workshops where athletes actively participate with more individual focus, could contribute to the optimization of their nutritional intake.

Theoretical Analysis of Consumers’Purchase Motivation in the Context of Environmental Protection

Through reviewing and summarizing the existing research on consumer motivation,and combining the characteristics of human behavior and the objective needs of environmental protection,this paper analyzes and defines consumers’purchase motivation.In the context of environmental protection,purchase motivation is divided into demand motivation,value recognition motivation,recognition motivation,and interest motivation.Their definitions are given in this paper,which provides a conceptual basis for further research on the influence of purchase motivation on consumer behavior in the context of environmental protection.

Exploration of the Integration of Positive Emotions and Flow Experience in STEAM Education

STEAM(science,technology,engineering,arts,and mathematics)education aims to cultivate innovative talents with multidimensional literacy through interdisciplinary integration and innovative practice.However,lack of student motivation has emerged as a key factor hindering its effectiveness.This study explores the integrated application of positive emotions and flow experience in STEAM education from the perspective of positive psychology.It systematically explains how these factors enhance learning motivation and promote knowledge internalization,proposing feasible pathways for instructional design,resource provision,environment creation,and team building.The study provides theoretical insights and practical guidance for transforming STEAM education in the new era.

Research Nexus and Implications of Learner Identity in Foreign Language Education

One of the most obvious markers of an individual’s identity is their language.However,in some ways,the relationship between identity and language acquisition seems to be missed.In fact,a lot of studies have shown that identity may influence the reasons behind language acquisition,especially in bilingual or multilingual societies.Learning English can provide EFL(English as a Foreign Language)students with a good sense of identity and encourage them to practice their agency,which can improve learning efficiency and effectiveness.This paper examines how the efficacy and results of language learning are influenced by the learner’s identity.

The Impact of Industry-Education Integration on College Students’ Motivation to Learn English under the TPACK Framework

This paper explores the impact of industry-education integration on students’motivation in college English courses under the TPACK(Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge)framework using a comprehensive approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods.Quantitative data analysis indicates a significant positive correlation between the perception of industry-education integration and the level of student learning motivation.There is also a clear association between the perception scores of TPACK framework integration and learning motivation.Qualitative data analysis reveals students’positive experiences and recognition of the TPACK framework integration in practical application projects.The study concludes that industry-education integration and the TPACK framework play a crucial role in enhancing students’learning motivation.It suggests optimizing teaching practices through faculty training,designing practical application projects,and promoting student interaction.This comprehensive analysis provides substantial guidance for the future development of English courses.

Ministry of Commerce:Full of confidence,clear direction,strong motivation

On March 12,the official account of the International Business Daily of the Ministry of Commerce published an article titled“Foreign trade enterprises:full of confidence,clear direction,strong motivation”.The content is as follows:This year,China is still facing a tough foreign trade situation.On the one hand,many international organizations predict that global economic growth in 2024 will still be lower than the historical average and the pressure on external demand will increase;on the other hand,trade protectionism and unilateralism are on the rise,geopolitical conflicts,the global“super election year”and other spillover factors have created many uncertainties.

The Influence of Swimming Athletes’ Burnout on Their Sports Participation Motivation in Hunan, China

Objective:This study aims to explore the effect of swimming athletes’burnout on their sports motivation in Hunan University,China.It seeks to understand how burnout influences various motivational factors,providing insights for optimizing swimming sports courses and enhancing student participation.Method:Employing random sampling,the study surveyed 260 swimming athletes from Hunan University.The research utilized a questionnaire divided into three parts:demographic information,the Athlete Burnout Questionnaire(ABQ),and the Intrinsic Motivation Inventory(IMI).Pearson’s r correlation analysis was conducted using SPSS to examine the relationships between burnout dimensions and motivational factors.Results:The study found significant correlations between a reduced sense of accomplishment and various motivational dimensions,including“interest/enjoyment,”“perceived competence,”“perceived choice,”and particularly“perceived tension.”Physical exhaustion showed a significant correlation only with“perceived tension,”indicating a strong link between psychological stress and physical fatigue.Sports devaluation was significantly correlated with“perceived tension,”suggesting that psychological stress impacts athletes’valuation of their sport.Conclusion:The findings highlight the complex interplay between burnout and motivation in swimming athletes.Psychological stress,as indicated by“perceived tension,”emerges as a key factor influencing both the physical and emotional aspects of burnout.The study underscores the need for holistic training approaches that balance physical training with psychological well-being,personalized coaching,and supportive environments to enhance intrinsic motivation and manage stress effectively.

Analysis of Influencing Factors of Work Motivation of Government Employees Based on MaxDiff Model:Evidence from Jiangmen City

The purpose of this paper is to use the MaxDiff model to explore the factors influencing the work motivation of staff in certain government agencies in Jiangmen City,and to conduct relevant empirical analyses.The study aims to propose strategies for improving work motivation among these staff members.The results indicate that the most significant factors affecting the work motivation of staff in Jiangmen government agencies are salary and remuneration,additional welfare benefits,and the power to make decisions about their own work.In contrast,factors such as a sense of belonging to the work unit,recognition of their work,and job security are less important.Therefore,it is recommended that government agencies in Jiangmen City increase the salaries and benefits of their staff and provide them with more decision-making power.This approach will stimulate their desire to work,enhance their motivation,improve the efficiency of government agencies,and elevate the level of public service.Ultimately,these measures will support the construction of a harmonious,stable,and orderly society.