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In contemporary times, the prominence of inclusive tourism participation is gaining traction worldwide. This research examines the residents’ perspectives on sustainable tourism development in the north-western Himalayas and determines the theoretical validity of the sustainable tourism attitude scale (SUS-TAS). For carrying out the study, a random survey technique with a structured questionnaire (N = 351) has been used at Sonamarg, which forms the ideal site for assessing community perceptions toward sustainable tourism. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with Varimax rotation was employed to identify the SUS-TAS dimensions. Our findings support the seven SAS-TAS dimensions with 42 items that maintained validity and reliability. Overall, the study findings infer that in six out of seven factors, residents’ level of agreement was above 70%. These insights highlight the quintessence of incorporating residents’ attitudes in the intersection of the decision-making process and tourism planning strategies. By quantifying residents’ perceptions of sustainable tourism, it becomes feasible to prioritize management measures in concert with the rights of the local community. Furthermore, this study forms the basis for a prospective sustainable tourism framework in mountain tourist destinations worldwide and in the Himalayan belt particularly owing to the growing tourist footprint in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Metavisualization plays a key role in science and technological learning in which visualization is practiced. We conducted two sequential studies with the purposes to first develop an instrument that allows individuals to report or reflect on their metavisualization, and then validate the instrument and investigate the relationships among the dimensions of metavisualization. Sample: A total of 320 university students participated in this research. Methods: Through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) in the first study and partial least squares – structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) in the second study, the validity and reliability of the instrument measuring the four dimensions of metavisualization were reported, and a theoretical model delineating the relationships among the four variables was explored. Findings: It was found that metacognitive skills, rather than metacognitive knowledge, significantly contributed to the demonstration of epistemic knowledge and judgment criteria during visualization. Metacognitive knowledge may also play an indirect role in learners' epistemic performance through its relation with metacognitive skills. Implications: The results provide insights to advance understanding of metavisualization and its relation to metacognition and epistemic practice. The validated instruments may be used for future quantitative or mixed research to advance understanding of the role metavisualization plays in various contexts of learning in science and technological education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary goal of this research was to empirically identify and validate the factors influencing student engagement in a learning environment where AI-based chat tools, such as ChatGPT or other large language models (LLMs), are intensively integrated into the curriculum and teaching–learning process. Traditional educational theories provide a robust framework for understanding diverse dimensions of student engagement, but the integration of AI-based tools offers new personalized learning experiences, immediate feedback, and resource accessibility that necessitate a contemporary exploration of these foundational concepts. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was utilized to uncover the underlying factor structure within a large set of variables, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was employed to verify the factor structure identified by EFA. Four new factors have been identified: "Academic Self-Efficacy and Preparedness", "Autonomy and Resource Utilization", "Interest and Engagement", and "Self-Regulation and Goal Setting." Based on these factors, a new engagement measuring scale has been developed to comprehensively assess student engagement in AI-enhanced learning environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the findings of the study that was initiated to develop and standardize a measure of Social Interaction (SI). The items were split into five different types of social interaction: exchange, competition, conflict, cooperation and accommodation. The systematic process that was used to construct and validate the tool is delineated in this study. The theoretical foundation for the questionnaire was carried out through a literature review. The item pool was generated with each statement reflecting the different aspects of interaction. Initially, experts in the field of social psychology reviewed the items for content validity and refined the items. The preliminary version of the questionnaire was tested using a pilot study. A larger validation was done with a larger population to confirm the factor structure using Confirmatory Factor Analysis. The model fit indices were good for the obtained model (CFI = 0.929, IFI = 0.930, TLI = 0.920, RMSEA = 0.053), confirming that the model structure is robust. The final questionnaire has 26 items with a reliable and valid measure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to develop a measurement for the expectations of pregnant women about breastfeeding and examine the psychometric properties of the scale. The study was conducted with two separate samples, including women who were ≥28 weeks pregnant. The first sample, comprising 322 women aged 19 to 49 years (M = 28.19; SD = 4.86), was formed to conduct an exploratory factor analysis (EFA). The second sample, which consisted of 274 women aged 18 to 42 years (M = 28.16; SD = 4.85), was formed to conduct a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The Prenatal Attachment Inventory and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale were administered. Data were collected between April and November 2021. In the EFA, two factors were obtained: "1: Enthusiastic Expectations of Breastfeeding" and "2: Fearful/Anxious Expectations of Breastfeeding." In the CFA, path diagrams and goodness-of-fit criteria showed that psychometric properties of 12-item and two-factor structure of the scale were sufficient. The Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of the overall scale and subscales were 0.88, 0.81, and 0.89, respectively. The scale was valid and reliable, and it performed well in measurement of pregnant women's expectations of breastfeeding about their future breastfeeding experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With increasing use of robots in social life, individuals need to interact with robots more frequently, and user-anxiety about robots has attracted an extensive research attention. However, this topic has not been explored as much in China. To provide a scale for research on robot anxiety in China, this study translated and examined the reliability and validity of the Robot Anxiety Scale (RAS). The results showed that the Chinese version of RAS had an acceptable content validity. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) showed that only one factor was extracted in this study, and the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) verified the factor structure, with the model-fitting index reaching an acceptable standard: χ2/df = 3.26, SRMR =.02, CFI =.99, GFI =.96, TLI =.98, RMSEA =.06. These findings were cross validated using Rasch measurement, in addition to further investigation of other RAS psychometric properties under the Rasch framework. Moreover, criterion validity analysis results also showed that robot anxiety was significantly positively correlated with state anxiety, trait anxiety, and negative emotions, while robot anxiety was significantly negatively correlated with trust in automation and positive emotions. In conclusion, the Chinese version of RAS is an effective tool for measuring robot anxiety in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction sites require heightened safety measures due to hazardous working conditions. Health and Safety (H&S) standards in the Indian construction sector are notably subpar. Despite this stark reality, Indian researchers have paid scant attention to H&S concerns. Recognizing the critical dimensions is pivotal for enhancing on-site H&S. Thus. This study endeavours to identify the key aspects and factors influencing H&S at job sites within the Indian construction industry to prompt similar investigations in other developing countries. The research employed a pilot-tested questionnaire survey methodology to validate dimensions derived from existing literature. Following the compilation of a final set of 61 dimensions, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was applied for analysis. Among the original 61 dimensions, 35 were identified as significant and categorized into four main factors: Management Regulatory Factor (MRF), Worker’s Self-Regulatory Factor (WSRF), Workplace Regulatory Factor (WRF), and Government Regulatory Factor (GRF) with Cronbach’s Alpha 0.946, 0.892, 0.782 and 0.773 showing reliability level of excellent, good, acceptable and acceptable respectively which provides a theoretical framework. The study’s outcomes can aid decision-makers, top management, and workers in comprehending H&S and its practical implementation. Additionally, the results may encourage developing countries to institute H&S governance for on-site safety. For future studies in the Indian construction sector, exploring these factors through Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) is recommended. Based on the dimensions and factors identified in this research, a model utilizing structural equation modelling (SEM), or a Path Model could be devised. It is also advised that emerging nations conduct further research in this direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Construct validation of cognitive batteries across Africa is imperative to understanding dementia in the region. We examined construct validity and internal consistency of the neuropsychological battery of Uniform Data Set version 3 (UDSNB 3.0) of the Alzheimer Coordinating Center in Nigeria older adults. Method: Three hundred forty-nine (220 females; age: 65 to 85) community dwellers were recruited. UDSNB 3.0 with 12 subscales were used to measure cognition. Two sets of data were collected. First was for exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and second was confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Four models were specified for CFA. Result: EFA principal axis factor with varimax rotation yielded 4 factors: Executive function, memory, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed. Four CFA were performed based on 4 specified models, with only model 3 showing good model fit: CMIN/DF= 2.13; confirmatory fit index=0.94; root mean square error of approximation =0.07. Model 3 had 5 latent variables: working memory, language, verbal memory, visual-spatial ability, and processing speed. UDSNB 3.0 had an overall Cronbach alpha of 0.73, suggesting strong internal reliability with ANOVA model F134,1619=183.65 significant at P< 0.001 level of testing. Conclusions: Our study showed that UDSNB 3.0 has construct validity and good internal consistency in our older adult population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study takes bankers' perceptions and pulls information on the variables influencing particular NPA resolution tactics. Data was gathered from managers in several Indian banks, particularly those in the credit department, using a selfstructured questionnaire. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire have been empirically validated. By employing EFA (exploratory factor analysis), Seven aspects of "management of NPAs" have been found and a comprehensive assessment of the viewpoint, conceptual, and empirical literature. Four criteria have been identified by the empirical research of these dimensions as being important for management. The current study provides useful recommendations for banking authorities on enhancing the asset quality of Indian banks and provides fresh perspectives on efficient credit management in banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research is to ascertain the elements that have an impact on and drive domestic violence in Saudi Arabia, a phenomenon that has a prevalence rate of around 35% among women globally. The researchers administered a survey to a sample of 550 individuals and used exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to analyze the collected data. The findings revealed three factors: a lack of familial unity, encouragement of detrimental characteristics, and economic turmoil. The authors examined the consequences of these characteristics on preventive and intervention programs and proposed suggestions for policymakers and researchers. This research enhances the existing body of knowledge on domestic violence by conducting a statistical analysis to examine the factors that lead to it and the resulting outcomes within a particular cultural setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Illness intrusiveness refers to the subjective cognitive appraisal of a chronic health condition interfering in daily, valued activities and may be highly relevant for parents of children with atypical genital appearance due to differences of sex development (DSD). However, a measure of illness intrusiveness has not been validated for this population. The current study aimed to evaluate the factor structure of the Illness Intrusiveness Scale for Parents (IIS-P) and examine convergent validity. Methods Participants included 102 parents (M age = 33.39 years, SD  =   6.48; 58% mothers) of 65 children (<2 years old) diagnosed with DSD participating in a larger, longitudinal study. Parents completed the IIS-P as well as self-report measures of stigma, and anxious and depressive symptoms. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted. Results EFA results supported a 1-factor intrusiveness solution (α  =  .93), as well as a 2-factor solution measuring intrusiveness on daily living (α  =  .92) and community connectedness (α  =  .85). The 1-factor solution and both factors of the 2-factor solution demonstrated significant convergent validity with stigma as well as anxious and depressive symptoms. Conclusions Support emerged for both 1- and 2-factor solutions of the IIS-P in parents of children with DSD. The decision to evaluate illness intrusiveness as a total score or to examine the subscales of daily living and community connectedness should be tailored to the unique aims of researchers and clinicians. Future research should conduct a confirmatory factor analysis with both 1- and 2-factor models with larger, more diverse samples of caregivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this transformative phase of Industry 4.0, the integration of advanced digital technologies into traditional manufacturing processes presents a paradigm shift in quality management. This seminal study ventures into the forefront of this transition, uncovering the intricate challenges impeding the adoption of Quality Management Practices (QMP) amidst digital innovation. Leveraging a comprehensive survey with 172 quality management professionals, alongside the methodological rigour of Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), our research delineates fifteen pivotal barriers to the harmonious integration of digital technologies with quality management systems. Predominantly, 'Organisational Behaviour' and 'Information Technology and Governance' surface as critical dimensions, outlining the complex landscape stakeholders must navigate. Central to our findings are leadership, cybersecurity, data protection, and organisational structure, underscored as the primary challenges that demand strategic focus. This investigation offers a pioneering framework for global stakeholders, illuminating a path forward in the quest for Quality 4.0. It marks a significant contribution to the literature by proposing a roadmap for organisations striving for excellence and innovation in the Industry 4.0 era, advocating for a seamless fusion of digital transformation and quality management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In compliance with national legislation, Greek tertiary education institutions assess educational quality often using a standardized anonymous questionnaire completed by students. This questionnaire aims to independently evaluate various course components, including content organization, instructor quality, facilities, infrastructure, and grading methods. Despite widespread use across universities, the questionnaire’s validity remains unexamined. This study addresses this gap by analyzing 48,000+ questionnaire responses from the University of the Peloponnese (2014–2022), encompassing 68 undergraduate and graduate programs. Confirmatory factor analyses were used to assess the quality of the questionnaire, while exploratory factor analyses were used to assess the dimensions of the tool based on the data. Both analyses reveal shortcomings: confirmatory analysis detects strong correlations between supposedly different factors, and exploratory analysis identifies dimensions inconsistent with the expected structure. These findings question the questionnaire’s quality and the validity of drawn conclusions, while additionally identifying opportunities for reducing the number of questions, which can contribute to increased questionnaire submission rates. Given its common use across Greek universities and its influence on shaping courses, urgent redesigning of the questionnaire for tertiary education evaluation is recommended.

As the digital age permeates higher education, the cybersecurity awareness of university students has emerged as a pressing concern. This study examines the behavioral factors influencing students' cybersecurity practices, developing a robust, empirically validated survey. Our research applies a comprehensive framework employing both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA; CFA) to affirm the survey's ability to capture the intricate dimensions of students' cybersecurity awareness. A structural equation model (SEM) has been developed to delineate and scrutinize five key dimensions of cybersecurity behaviors within the student body. Post-validation, we utilized this model to conduct a thorough comparative analysis of cybersecurity behaviors among members of the varied student demographic that participated in the survey. The investigation included an examination of behavior across genders, age groups, academic disciplines, and cultural backgrounds, shedding light on the diverse cybersecurity behaviors that define the modern student experience. Our research ultimately strives to contribute to the enhancement of digital security in educational environments, aligning student online practices with robust security measures and nurturing a cybersecurity-aware culture in academia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In compliance with national legislation, Greek tertiary education institutions assess educational quality often using a standardized anonymous questionnaire completed by students. This questionnaire aims to independently evaluate various course components, including content organization, instructor quality, facilities, infrastructure, and grading methods. Despite widespread use across universities, the questionnaire's validity remains unexamined. This study addresses this gap by analyzing 48,000+ questionnaire responses from the University of the Peloponnese (2014–2022), encompassing 68 undergraduate and graduate programs. Confirmatory factor analyses were used to assess the quality of the questionnaire, while exploratory factor analyses were used to assess the dimensions of the tool based on the data. Both analyses reveal shortcomings: confirmatory analysis detects strong correlations between supposedly different factors, and exploratory analysis identifies dimensions inconsistent with the expected structure. These findings question the questionnaire's quality and the validity of drawn conclusions, while additionally identifying opportunities for reducing the number of questions, which can contribute to increased questionnaire submission rates. Given its common use across Greek universities and its influence on shaping courses, urgent redesigning of the questionnaire for tertiary education evaluation is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the role of using algorithmic human resource management (HRM) to make strategic decisions concerning firms' human resource (HR) activities. This study develops a scale to measure algorithmic HRM usage in its first phase. In the second phase, it is found that algorithmic HRM usage significantly impacts strategic HR decision-making, which helps and enables firms to create a competitive advantage. Utilizing the authors' LinkedIn profiles, 234 participants were included in the fieldwork. Collected data were analyzed by applying partial least squares structure equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The mediating roles of HR strategic decision-making and HR digital maturity as moderators in enabling the impact of algorithmic HRM on the firm's competitive advantage have been corroborated. This study finds a strong relationship between algorithmic HRM usage and competitive advantage, a significant relationship between algorithmic HRM usage and strategic HR decision-making, and a significant relationship between strategic HR decision-making and competitive advantage. The moderating role of HR digital maturity was insignificant in this research, paving the way for future research. This research, the model, and its findings contribute to the theory and implicate the practicality of algorithmic HRM. It is one of few papers addressing algorithmic HRM usage in a transitioning economy like Saudi Arabia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penalized structural equation models (PSEM) is a new powerful estimation technique that can be used to tackle a variety of difficult structural estimation problems that can not be handled with previously developed methods. In this paper we describe the PSEM framework and illustrate the quality of the method with simulation studies. Maximum-likelihood and weighted least squares PSEM estimation is discussed for SEM models with continuous and categorical variables. We show that traditional EFA, multiple group alignment (MGA), and Bayesian SEM (BSEM) are examples of PSEM. The PSEM framework also extends standard SEM models with the possibility to structurally align various model parameters. Exploratory latent growth models, also referred to as Tuckerized curve models, can also be estimated in the PSEM framework and are illustrated here with simulation studies and an empirical example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the metal content, fatty acid composition, lipid quality, and potential health risks of Pontastacus leptodactylus crayfish inhabiting Atikhisar Dam Lake. The research covers a 12-month period and includes both male and female individuals. The study investigated the metal content of crayfish specimens. In female individuals, the metal concentrations were ranked as Fe > Zn > Al > Cu > Mn > Se > As > Hg > Cd > Pb, while in male individuals, the ranking was Fe > Al > Zn > Cu > Mn > Se > As > Hg > Pb > Cd. The results demonstrate that Atherogenicity Index (AI) values for both genders range between 0.21 and 0.31, and Thrombogenicity Index (TI) values fall within 0.14 and 0.20. This indicates that crayfish meat is composed of healthy and high-quality fatty acids. In male individuals, omega-3 values range from 25.28 ± 0.380% to 28.34 ± 0.430%, and in female individuals, they vary from 22.98 ± 0.195% to 28.73 ± 0.871%. These findings underscore the absence of significant health risks associated with mercury levels in crayfish meat. Monthly meal calculations reveal that consuming female crayfish at an average of 4.35 servings per month for adults and 2.24 servings per month for children presents no health hazards. Similarly, the consumption of crayfish meat at an average of 5.29 servings per month for adult males and 2.72 servings per month for male children is deemed safe for health. Based on these results, the lipid quality of both male and female individuals from this species is found to be beneficial, as confirmed by risk–benefit assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cloud computing platforms have been continuously evolving. Features such as the Elastic Fabric Adapter (EFA) in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform have brought yet another revolution in the High Performance Computing (HPC) world, further accelerating the convergence of HPC and cloud computing. Other public clouds also support similar features further fueling this change. In this paper, we show how and why the performance of a large-scale computational fluid dynamics (CFD) HPC application on AWS competes very closely with the one on Beskow—a Cray XC40 supercomputer at the PDC Center for High-Performance Computing - in terms of cost-efficiency with strong scaling up to 2304 processes. We perform an extensive set of micro and macro benchmarks in both environments and conduct a comparative analysis. Until as recently as 2020 these benchmarks have notoriously yielded unsatisfactory results for the cloud platforms compared with on-premise infrastructures. Our aim is to access the HPC capabilities of the cloud, and in general to demonstrate how researchers can scale and evaluate the performance of their application in the cloud. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was motivated by interest in the validity of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) as a measure of social support in the context of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. To this end, a validation study of the MSPSS was undertaken in Korea in 2021 during the worst period of the COVID-19 pandemic and its related lockdown restrictions using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Specifically, a sample of 1,434 adults completed a self-administrated survey; among them, 741 were randomly selected for the EFA whereas the remaining samples were used for the CFA. Among the study results, (a) suitability tests of the sample data for factor analysis were performed, and the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin statistic was found to be sound for sampling adequacy; moreover, the skewness and kurtosis indicated that all items had normal distributions, and the homogeneity of the scale was supported by the finding of strong positive correlations between each item and the total. Further, (b) EFA revealed satisfactory internal consistency and homogeneity, with significant positive correlations among the three factors (significant others, family, and friends); testing showed that the three-factor structure of the original 12-item MSPSS was still appropriate. The concurrent validity of the MSPSS was measured by examining its correlations with similar constructs such as stress, loneliness, and depression, and all correlations were found to be statistically significantly negative, thus implying that perceptions of social support are associated with better mental or emotional health. (c) CFA was conducted to validate the original MSPSS three-factor model structure in a different sample of subjects, and these results validated the three-factor model based on sound fit indices. The paper concludes by suggesting the implications of the obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Teaching social skills to students with special educational needs is essential for their personal development and integration into society. Objectives. The purpose of this study was to validate a measurement instrument for the elements involved in teaching and learning social skills in students with special educational needs. Methods. Two studies were conducted to accomplish this objective. We first performed exploratory research on half of the sample consisting of 166 Greek teachers working in primary and secondary special and general education schools in the Western Macedonia region. Then, we conducted a confirmatory study on a sample of 185 Greek teachers who were also working in primary and secondary special and general education schools in the same region. All education professionals work with students with mild special educational needs. The instrument used was an "ad hoc" questionnaire consisting of 17 items of a 5-point Likert scale, to which different analyses were applied to verify its validity and reliability. Results. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) showed a total of 3 factors corresponding to the "Preparedness of Teachers in Teaching Social Skills", the "Elements of Influence on Teachers' Suitability in Teaching Social Skills", and the "Elements that play an important role in Teaching Social Skills". Subsequently, a Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was carried out, through which the results derived from the AFE were ratified. Conclusion. The findings reveal an instrument that is adequate in validity and reliability, in accordance with the literature, demonstrating that the model is consistent and coherent with the initial theoretical assumptions.

Background: Intrapersonal aspects of emotion regulation have been at the forefront of research, while interpersonal aspects have received less attention. The Interpersonal Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (IERQ) was developed to address this issue. However, this scale was neither adapted nor validated for European Portuguese. Aims: The present study aims to adapt the IERQ to European Portuguese and explore the preliminary psychometric properties of the IERQ in a community sample, through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Construct validity was further supported by examining convergent validity with ERQ subscales. Method: Using a cross-sectional design, individuals were recruited online. Self-report questionnaires were used, namely the IERQ and the Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ). Results: The four-factor structure was confirmed through CFA. IERQ subscales correlated positively with the dimensions of the ERQ of cognitive reappraisal and correlated negatively with experiential suppression. Conclusions: This preliminary study showed that the IERQ has adequate psychometric properties in a Portuguese sample and supports that this instrument can be used to assess interpersonal emotion regulation strategies in non-clinical samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of Cultural Intelligence Scale (CQS), based on item response theory (IRT) using the graded response model (GRM). The study calibration sample included 400, while the study sample included 1000, male and female Saudi participants, aged between 18 and 62 years. IRT‐GRM results supported the quality of the psychometric properties of CQS, and its appropriateness to measure cultural intelligence (CQ) for the majority of individuals. CQS well‐distinguished people at different ability levels along the CQ latent trait, particularly with middle and low abilities. However, CQS full scale and subscales had less accurate measurement precision at high levels of CQ, and some subscales had more precision at low level abilities. CQS items had medium ability to differentiate among subjects, and they provided more information in evaluating individuals with medium CQ. Therefore, CQS might be more suitable for identification and development purposes, where low to med‐levels of CQ are expected. Additional assessment procedures need to be added, for selection or promotion purposes to increase the measurement precision. Confirmatory factor analysis results confirmed the multidimensional construct of CQS with four specific‐related factors at the first level, and an aggregate factor at the second level. This model provided better model fit using IRT‐GRM approach, and it was supported by classical test theory analysis results. Therefore, it is important to rely on subscale scores, besides the total score to interpret CQ for individuals. The study stressed the importance of examining CQS item parameters and information based on the country it is adapted for, to investigate how they interact with country culture; and to take into account ability level, when selecting optimal measures. Practitioner points: The results of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and item response theory (IRT) graded response model (GRM) supported the multidimensional construct of Cultural Intelligence Scale (CQS) with four specific‐related factors at the first level, and an aggregate factor at the second level, that was proposed by the CQS theory, compared to other models.IRT‐GRM analysis results in this study indicated that CQS has good psychometric properties and indicated that it appears to be a valid and moderately reliable instrument in detecting Cultural intelligence (CQ). These results were supported by CTT analysis results.IRT‐GRM analysis results showed that CQS well‐distinguished people at different ability levels along the CQ latent trait, particularly with middle and low abilities. However, CQS full scale and subscales had less accurate measurement precision at high levels of CQ, and some subscales had more precision at low level abilities.The study suggested that it is important to examine the CQS model fit, item parameters, information functions for the full scale and subscales based on the country it is adapted for, before considering it. It is important also to rely on the subscale scores to interpret CQ for individuals, and to identify their strengths, rather than relying on the total score alone.The study results suggested that CQS suites better CQ identification and development purposes. For selection or promotion purposes, it is suggested to add additional assessment procedures to increase the measurement precision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study extends the examination of the structure and validity of the Parental Feelings Inventory to parents of adolescents with externalizing and internalizing behavior problems by employing exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses and by testing its scales' validity against related external variables. Its goal is to verify the instrument's validity in wider parental populations than those for which it was originally validated (that is, parents of pre-school children). The sample included 519 parents (321 mothers and 198 fathers) of adolescents attending the child and adolescent psychiatric center of a public hospital that serves a multi-ethnic population in its region. The findings derived from the factorial analyses yielded a five-factor structure for the PFI (i.e., anxious, angry, satisfied, happy, and sad), with the factors correspondingly correlating with the parents' concurrent reports of well-being and difficulties in emotional regulation. Subject to the study's limitations, its findings suggest that the PFI can be used to assess parental feelings with parents of adolescents, which may advance the instrument's usage by researchers and clinicians with a larger age range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, numerous research studies have highlighted how teachers' perceptions of educational robotics (ER) and their sense of self-efficacy can influence the learning process. Although different instruments exist to investigate teachers' perspectives on ER, the Robotics Interest Questionnaire (RIQ) scale, developed within the Portuguese K–12 education framework to analyse the impact of domain knowledge (i.e. coding and robotics), interest in robotics, and confidence in one's self-efficacy as a robotics teacher, was used in the present work. This instrument has been validated in Portugal, meeting rigorous statistical and reliability measures that our work intends to verify in its Italian version. To test the validity of the instrument, the Teacher Self-Efficacy (QAI) Questionnaire, already validated in Italian and accredited in the literature, was administered jointly. The instruments were administered to a non-probabilistic sample of 823 teachers working in different school orders. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were carried out, confirming a four-factor model. The results suggest the applicability of the RIQ instrument in the Italian school context to test teachers' levels of interest, knowledge, problem-solving, collaborative work, and sense of self-efficacy, successfully discriminating between experienced and inexperienced ER teachers. These constructs, as suggested in multiple works, are relevant factors in promoting the use of robotics for educational purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One’s environmental attitude can predict human behavior toward the environment. This study aimed to validate the environmental attitude instrument with the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in ethnoscience-integrated (Ethno-STEM) approach. The questionnaire consisted of 16 items and was tested on 159 eighth-grade students. Data were analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The communality value of three instrument items was less than 0.5, so they were excluded in EFA stage 1. The EFA stage 2 test results showed that the 13 instrument items had a factor loading of more than 0.5 and were categorized into five factors. The CFA stage 1 was conducted using linear structural relations (LISREL) and obtained the t-value for all items in factors 1-4 more than the t-table, so they were declared valid. Factor 5 was omitted in CFA test stage 2 due to invalid items. The CFA test results showed that the t-count of the four factors was more than the t-table. Based on the goodness of fit value, the model and measurement matrices were the same (model fit). Thus, the environmental attitude instrument items are declared valid, and the model is fit. The instrument can be used to measure environmental attitudes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the implementation of environmental management plans (EMPs) in construction projects is crucial for meeting environmental sustainability goals and reducing potential adverse impacts. By using performance indicators (PIs), stakeholders can objectively measure the performance of EMP implementation, identifying areas of success and areas that may require improvement. Therefore, this study aims to examine the PIs for assessing EMP implementation in water supply construction projects, using Saudi Arabia as a case study. Data from semi-structured interviews and a systematic literature review were used to develop a potential list of PIs. Then, the PIs were used to create a survey and distributed to industry professionals. Data from 112 respondents were analyzed using mean ranking analysis, the normalization method, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE). Eighteen critical PIs for assessing EMP implementation in water supply construction projects were identified, including public safety, road safety hazards, construction waste, clogged drainage, irregular flooding, the spilling of chemical substances, slope failures, soil erosion, landslide occurrence, increased schedule waste, changes in the color of bodies of water, oil/fuel spills, restricted site accessibility, the smell of run-off water, traffic accidents on construction sites, the spread of disease, changes in the color of run-off water, and overflowing silt traps. The EFA revealed that PIs can be grouped into three underlying constructs: fluid-related indicators, health and safety-related indicators, and site environment-related indicators. The FSE results confirmed that all PIs are between moderately critical to critical. This study's significance lies in its examination of PIs that aim to improve the environmental performance of water supply construction projects. Understanding which indicators are most effective allows for targeted improvements, helping to minimize negative environmental impacts and ensuring sustainable practices. Finally, this study is a pioneer in examining the critical PIs for assessing EMP implementation in water supply construction projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present research was to identify and assess key organizational factors affecting work performance via Gilbert's Behavioral Engineering Model (BEM). Therefore, a self-made scale considering BEM's dimensions was developed and tested. Data were gathered from the 1st of April to end of May 2023, using a randomly stratified sample of 297 Mexican companies of Sonora State. The final questionnaire - named ADOPTproved adequate psychometric properties to assess eight organizational factors of human performance proposed. ADOPT liability and validity are shown in the light of commented literature and data on present organizational effectiveness and corporate longevity. Main results indicate a global alpha scale liability of .92 being Task Support, knowledge/Competences, and Context most valued predictors of organizational effectiveness, followed by Aims/Objectives and Feedback factors. It was also confirmed that both contextual (environmental level) and behaviour (individual level) type of supports are equally important in predicting work performance. Evidence indicates that organizational performance management in SMEs is highly achieved on a long-term basis by attending these key factors in a specific loop, i.e. contextualising, system maintenance (feedback), and empowering. This sequence support personnel assessments as essential for empowering decision-making processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Fats contained in food are the most concentrated source of energy, fat-soluble vitamins and essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (EFA). Of the four types of unsaturated acids, three main families have specific biological effects: omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9. Objective of the work The aim of the study was to review the current knowledge about the action and consumption of products rich in EFAs and to present the topic of conscious supplementation with "fashionable" omega acids. Materials and methodology A literature selection was performed from the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. Articles were searched in English and Polish. Results Most research indicates the beneficial effect of omega acids on the human body. The recommended daily intake of omega fatty acids is a maximum of 3 grams. EFAs have a versatile effect - they have anti-inflammatory and lipid-lowering effects, and support our cardiovascular and autoimmune systems. They have a positive effect on the intestinal microflora and our skin. Conclusions Consumption of products rich in omega acids and their appropriate supplementation bring many health benefits. Nevertheless, the assessment of the effectiveness and safety of the use of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the treatment of various diseases requires further detailed research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This article aims to analyze the importance of critical success factors in effectively implementing Six Sigma. It delves into the determination of key factors and attributes that contribute to successful adoption, considering that not all Six Sigma endeavors have achieved the desired outcomes. According to the research, a significant portion of corporate Six Sigma initiatives (approximately 60%) fail due to incorrect integration of vital factors and misguided assumptions. To conduct the study, a research survey incorporating a Likert scale questionnaire with a simple random sampling method was distributed among 2,325 potential participants, resulting in 573 responses, primarily from Germany, the United Kingdom, and Sweden. Through various structural equation modeling (SEM) approaches, such as exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), the study revealed four essential elements for success: (1) the competency of belt system employees; (2) project management skills; (3) organizational economic capability; and (4) leadership commitment and involvement. These findings hold significant implications for institutions, practitioners, and researchers seeking to incorporate these elements into their Six Sigma deployment strategies for long-term success. The study's originality lies in its contribution to assessing critical success factors in Six Sigma deployment within the European automobile industry, utilizing a mixed-methods research design supplemented by descriptive statistics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Construction sites require greater safety precautions due to unsafe working conditions. Health and Safety (H&S) in the Indian construction sector is very poor. Even with this reality, Indian researchers have paid little attention to H&S issues. Understanding important dimensions improves on-site H&S. So, this study aims to find out the most important aspects and factors that affect health and safety on the job site in the Indian construction industry and get other developing countries to do the same. A piloted and tested questionnaire survey approach was employed in this study to verify and confirm the set of dimensions explored from the existing literature. After compiling a final set of 61 dimensions, Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was used to analyze them. Out of the original 61 dimensions, 35 were deemed significant and clustered into 4 main factors: management regulatory factor, worker's self-regulatory factor, workplace regulatory factor, and government regulatory factor. The study's findings may help decision-makers, top management, and workers to understand H&S and its effective implementation. The results will also encourage developing countries to implement H&S governance for on-site H&S. Future studies for the Indian construction sector can examine the factors using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), and a model by structural equation modeling (SEM) or Path Model can be developed by using the dimensions and extracted factors given in this work. In the future, emerging nations should conduct more research in this direction is also recommended.

This study aims to compile and validate Pancasila character instruments using three methods: Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and the RASCH model. This research is a survey involving 681 students from universities throughout Indonesia. The study consisted of three stages, namely (1) item preparation, (2) construct validation through EFA and CFA, and (3) item validation using the RASCH model. The preparation of Pancasila character instrument items was carried out through a literature review and 44 statement items covering six aspects of Pancasila character. After EFA was conducted, 44 items were eliminated into 33 items which were divided into five constructs or factors, namely factor 1 = Ethics, Nationalism, Independent and Critical, factor 2 = Self Efficacy, factor 3 = Empathy, factor 4 = Creativity, and Global Knowledge, and factor 5 = Discipline. This result is reinforced by the CFA, which shows that the factors formed are in accordance with the model and have items that can describe the character of Pancasila (loading factor ≥0.3). Further analysis using RASCH shows that the instrument developed has good validity and reliability and can be used to measure students' Pancasila character.

The primary goal of this research was to empirically identify and validate the factors influencing student engagement in a learning environment where AI-based chat tools, such as ChatGPT or other large language models (LLMs), are intensively integrated into the curriculum and teaching–learning process. Traditional educational theories provide a robust framework for understanding diverse dimensions of student engagement, but the integration of AI-based tools offers new personalized learning experiences, immediate feedback, and resource accessibility that necessitate a contemporary exploration of these foundational concepts. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was utilized to uncover the underlying factor structure within a large set of variables, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was employed to verify the factor structure identified by EFA. Four new factors have been identified: “Academic Self-Efficacy and Preparedness”, “Autonomy and Resource Utilization”, “Interest and Engagement”, and “Self-Regulation and Goal Setting.” Based on these factors, a new engagement measuring scale has been developed to comprehensively assess student engagement in AI-enhanced learning environments.

The objective of this research is to ascertain the elements that have an impact on and drive domestic violence in Saudi Arabia, a phenomenon that has a prevalence rate of around 35% among women globally. The researchers administered a survey to a sample of 550 individuals and used exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to analyze the collected data. The findings revealed three factors: a lack of familial unity, encouragement of detrimental characteristics, and economic turmoil. The authors examined the consequences of these characteristics on preventive and intervention programs and proposed suggestions for policymakers and researchers. This research enhances the existing body of knowledge on domestic violence by conducting a statistical analysis to examine the factors that lead to it and the resulting outcomes within a particular cultural setting.