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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Les apprenants de FLE à l'Université des Trois Gorges : politiques linguistiques et motivations

Une vue globale des connaissances théoriques permet de rendre compte de la diversité des origines des motivations propres à chaque individu. Ainsi, dans cet article, on présente le panorama du franais en Chine, les politiques linguistiques d’Etat. On s’intéresse également à la faon dont les comportements découlent de ces motivations. On étudie les motivations diverses des apprenants de FLE à notre université qui les aident à mieux comprendre et apprécier la belle langue franaise, et à mieux trouver des stratégies pour motiver les apprenants.

On the Varieties and Factors of Chinese College Students Motivations in English Learning

Learner's motivation is very important in learning process and learning result. It can be divided into different varieties. The positive factors which can influence learner's motivation can play a vital role in College English teaching. In college English learning and teaching, teachers should adopt suitable teaching strategies and methods to realize these positive factors in order to im-prove college students English learning.

Motivations, Challenges and Coping Strategies for Smoking Cessation: Based on Multi-ethnic Pregnant Couples in Far Western China

The present study aimed to clarify the smoking cessation motivations, challenges and coping strategies among pregnant couples. A qualitative design using a grounded theory approach was applied. Data were collected by individual semi-structured interviews with 39 married individuals(21 non-smoking pregnant women and 18 smoking or ever-smoking men with a pregnant wife) and 3 imams in an ethnically diverse region of far western China. The most common theme for smoking cessation motivation was 'embryo quality'(i.e., a healthier baby), followed by family's health. Most interviewees reported that husband's withdrawal symptoms were the greatest challenge to smoking cessation, followed by the Chinese tobacco culture. Coping strategies given by the pregnant women typically involved combining emotional, behavioral and social interventions. Social interventions showed advantages in helping to quit smoking. Pregnancy appears to be a positive stimulus for pregnant couples' smoking cessation. Our results suggest that pregnancy, a highly important life event, may help to reduce barriers to smoking cessation at the social level(e.g., limiting access to cigarettes, avoiding temptation to smoke), but does little to help with the withdrawal symptoms. Professional guidance for smoking cessation is still necessary.

Motivations of Code-switching among People of Different English Proficiency:A Sociolinguistics Survey

Code-switching is a linguistic behavior that arises as a result of languages coming into contact. The idea of codeswitching was proposed since the 1970 s and has been heatedly discussed. This study will particularly focus on the motivations for code-switching on campus, especially for the reason of college students and teachers as frequent users. The study aims to find out if there is any relevance between one's English proficiency and motivation for code-switching.

Volunteering in the United Arab Emirates’ Health System—Motivations and Challenges

Background: The volunteer role has been cited as an important in supporting healthcare organizations in diverse areas such as contributing to research, health professional’s education, health care delivery, health policy development and patient administration. Proper motivation of volunteers is required for sustaining volunteer performance, while encumbrances to optimal engagement in health systems need to be addressed. This study aimed to investigate the main factors that motivate volunteers to participate in the UAE healthcare system, along with exploring the barriers and challenges being faced. Methods: This study was designed as a quantitative cross-sectional study in United Arab Emirates (UAE). A purposive sample of the Adult citizens and residents using purposive sampling directed at all major health volunteer recruitment agencies in UAE, who have volunteered at least once in the health system over the preceding 12 months. Participants Adult UAE residents were selected by a purposive sampling method from February to April 2017. Data were collected through electronic questionnaires using modified Volunteer Motivation Inventory (VMI). Data were analyzed from 667 adults’ residents who were reported to volunteer at least once in healthcare opportunities. Results: About 53% (n = 290) of the volunteers in this sample were full time employed individuals. Almost 63% (n = 422) were female. Overall, assessed self-reported motivations of volunteer participants were high. The main motivation for volunteering in healthcare opportunities in the UAE was Understanding dimension (Mean = 4.68), followed by self-esteem dimension (Mean = 4.60). Eight elements of volunteer motivation showed no statistically significant differences between male and female respondents. Organization/system barriers dimension was the highest among respondents (Mean = 2.9), followed by individual barriers (Mean = 2.6), interpersonal (Mean = 2.06) and contextual (Mean = 2.04). Conclusion: UAE health sector volunteers who participated in this study appeared to be highly motivated. The main motivation factor was understanding dimension which allowed volunteers in healthcare to gain a new perspective on things, through practical training and learning new things, dealing with different groups in the health sector, for example doctors, nursing, patients. What makes the health sector volunteer understand them self and the world around them. Therefore the organization should focus on volunteer motivation to ensure future intensions of them. The four main barriers to volunteer were Individual barriers, Interpersonal barriers, contextual barriers and organizations system barriers. Concerted efforts are needed to raise awareness about available volunteer opportunities, and optimally align the motivations of volunteers with organizational objectives in the UAE health sector.

The Motivations of Chinese EFL Learners

English is regarded as the international language,which makes it the most popular language to learn around the world.Among the many factors that affect the learning outcomes of English language,motivation is broadly considered as one of the most important ones.This paper presents a general review on types of motivation as well as the factors that are linked to motivation.This paper also touches upon some critical issues that Chinese EFL learners face in terms of motivation in English learning.

A survey study on motivations for citation:A case study on periodicals research and library and information science community in China

A large number of theoretical and empirical studies on citation behavior have been conducted internationally. Although some theoretical studies on such topic have been carried out in China, few studies have focused specifically on this area from an empirical perspective, resulting in the lack of literature on the findings of actual surveys. To address this challenge, we conducted two questionnaire surveys to understand the motivations of the researchers on citation. One survey covers the authors who published articles in Chinese Journal of Scientific and Technical Periodicals, while the other targets the most productive and most cited Chinese authors in library and information science. The results show that citation behavior is not only motivated by rational factors, but also by other social factors.

Technology Sub-diffusions:Consumptive Motivations for Mobile Phone Calls and Digital Services

Digital services interfaced with mobile phone lines are gradually being regarded as a core product in this modern age due to the high transmission speed of mobile technology.The research in this paper is based on the concept of product inter-dependence and actively explores the different consumptive motivations between the consumers' behavior of phone-call users and those who use digital services.This study also attempts to use a modifi ed diffusion model to estimate the consumers' collective behavior with a longitudinal approach.In this study,it can be inferred that psychological consumer motivations should dominate marketing policies.Thus,it was found that digital service users have more self-motivation and autonomy when adopting a new product because they have significantly higher innovative at-tributes than the segment of phone-call users.With these findings,we claim that we have discovered an unprec-edented concept for marketing managers who welcome the challenges of mobile digital services in the future.