Search Results (256)

In an era where digitalization shapes economic and social landscapes, the intersection of digital skills, ethics, and integrity plays a crucial role in understanding the vulnerability of youth classified as NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training). This study explores how risky internet use and digital skill gaps contribute to socio-economic exclusion, integrating a multivariate and spatial approach to assess regional disparities in Europe. This study adopts a systems thinking perspective to explore digital exclusion as an emergent outcome of multiple interrelated subsystems. The research employs logistic regression, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with Promax rotation, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to examine the impact of digital behaviors on NEET status. Using Eurostat data aggregated at the country level for the period (2000–2023) across 28 European countries, this study evaluates 24 digital indicators covering social media usage, instant messaging, daily internet access, data protection awareness, and digital literacy levels. The findings reveal that low digital skills significantly increase the likelihood of being NEET, while excessive social media and internet use show mixed effects depending on socio-economic context. A strong negative correlation between digital security practices and NEET status suggests that youths with a higher awareness of online risks are less prone to socio-economic exclusion. The GIS analysis highlights regional disparities, where countries with limited digital access and lower literacy levels exhibit higher NEET rates. Digital exclusion is not merely a technological issue but a multidimensional socio-economic challenge. To reduce the NEET rate, policies must focus on enhancing digital skills, fostering online security awareness, and addressing regional disparities. Integrating GIS methods allows for the identification of territorial clusters with heightened digital vulnerabilities, guiding targeted interventions for improving youth employability in the digital economy. Full article

This study explores the potential of Intelligent Geographic Information Systems (GISs) in advancing educational practices through the integration of real-time data models. The objective is to investigate how GIS technology can enhance teaching and learning by providing interactive and dynamic learning environments. The research employs a bibliometric analysis based on the Scopus database, covering the period from 2000 to 2024, to identify key trends, the evolution of GIS applications in education, and their pedagogical impact. Findings reveal that GISs, particularly when incorporating real-time data, enable a more immersive learning experience, facilitate data-driven decision-making, and promote student engagement through project-based learning. However, challenges such as the lack of specialized training for educators and limitations in technological infrastructure remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. The study concludes that Intelligent GISs have the potential to transform education by fostering personalized, interdisciplinary learning and enhancing educational management. It emphasizes the need for further research aimed at developing user-friendly systems and addressing ethical concerns to ensure the benefits of GIS technology are accessible to all students. Future studies should examine the long-term effects of GISs on student outcomes and explore their integration into diverse educational contexts. Full article

This paper presents a conceptual and methodological framework for using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to “deep map” cultural heritage sites along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, with a focus on the 1588 Spanish Armada wrecks in County Kerry and archaeological landscapes in County Sligo’s “Yeats Country.” Drawing on interdisciplinary dialogues from the humanities, social sciences, and geospatial sciences, it illustrates how digital spatial technologies can excavate, preserve, and sustain intangible cultural knowledge embedded within such palimpsestic landscapes. Using MAXQDA 24 software to mine and code historical, literary, folkloric, and environmental texts, the study constructed bespoke GIS attribute tables and visualizations integrated with elevation models and open-source archaeological data. The result is a richly layered cartographic method that reveals the spectral and affective dimensions of heritage landscapes through climate, memory, literature, and spatial storytelling. By engaging with “deep mapping” and theories such as “Spectral Geography,” the research offers new avenues for sustainable heritage conservation, cultural tourism, and public education that are sensitive to both ecological and cultural resilience in the West of Ireland. Full article

This study explores digital inequality as a socio-spatial phenomenon within the context of smart inclusion, focusing on the Regional Unit of Xanthi, Greece—a region marked by ethno-cultural diversity and pronounced urban–rural contrasts. Using a mixed-methods design, this research integrates secondary quantitative data with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews, aiming to uncover how spatial, demographic, and cultural variables shape digital engagement. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools are employed to map disparities in internet access and ICT infrastructure, revealing significant gaps linked to geography, education, and economic status. The findings demonstrate that digital inequality is particularly acute in rural, minority, and economically marginalized communities, where limited infrastructure intersects with low digital literacy and socio-economic disadvantage. Interview data further illuminate how residents navigate exclusion, emphasizing generational divides, perceptions of technology, and place-based constraints. By bridging spatial analysis with lived experience, this study advances the conceptualization of digitally inclusive smart regions. It offers policy-relevant insights into how territorial inequality undermines the goals of smart development and proposes context-sensitive interventions to promote equitable digital participation. The case of Xanthi underscores the importance of integrating spatial justice into smart city and regional planning agendas. Full article

This study explores the enhancement of spatial vitality in the Historic Center of Macau from the perspective of museumification theory. This research employs GIS technology to analyze Baidu heatmap data, comparing the differences in spatial vitality between the festive and daily periods. Furthermore, experiential quality questionnaire data were collected from 224 tourists visiting the historical district, constructing a theoretical model of “objective vitality–experience quality”. Through objective analysis, the results indicate that the distribution of vitality in the Historic Center of Macau exhibits a clear core–periphery diffusion pattern. During the festive period, the intensity of spatial vitality significantly increases. Through subjective analysis, this study reveals that experiential quality has a significant impact on spatial vitality. Among the dimensions, education and inspiration, cultural exchange, and entertainment enjoyment have a notably positive effect on spatial vitality. The elements of education and inspiration play a crucial role during festive periods—particularly artistic attractions and educational entertainment—which positively influence vitality. This study innovatively applies museumification theory to the research of vitality in a historical district, providing valuable references for the sustainable cultural tourism development and cultural heritage preservation of the Historic Center of Macau. Full article

This research paper presents an assessment of geohazards on Lefkas Island, Greece, using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology to map risk and enhance public awareness through an interactive web application. Natural hazards such as landslides, floods, wildfires, and desertification threaten both the safety of residents and the island’s tourism-dependent economy, particularly due to its seismic activity and Mediterranean climate. By combining the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction with GIS capabilities, we created detailed hazard maps that visually represent areas of susceptibility and provide critical insights for local authorities and the public. The web application developed serves as a user-friendly platform for disseminating hazard information and educational resources, thus promoting community preparedness and resilience. The findings highlight the necessity for proactive land management strategies and community engagement in disaster risk reduction efforts. This study underscores GIS’s pivotal role in fostering informed decision making and enhancing the safety of Lefkas Island’s inhabitants and visitors in the face of environmental challenges. Full article

This paper investigates integrating a sensory data model for managing an existing 50-year-old building. A primary challenge in retrofitting older structures is the optimal deployment of high-quality sensors, systematic data acquisition, and subsequent data management. To address this, the study implemented a network of over 50 sensors connected via 270 m of wired infrastructure, deliberately avoiding wireless transmission to ensure data reliability. This configuration generates 5568 data points daily, which are archived on a dedicated server. The data is planned for integration into the Campus Geographical Information System (GIS), enabling private and public access. A methodology was employed, involving the strategic placement of sensors based on building use patterns, continuous data monitoring, and iterative sensor performance evaluation. The findings from the study indicate that integrating sensory data through this structured approach significantly enhances building management capabilities. Specifically, the results demonstrate improved energy efficiency and environmental performance, which is particularly relevant for public and educational facilities. The research highlights that a data-driven, monitoring-based management system can optimize operational functions and inform future retrofitting strategies for aging buildings. Full article

Climate change, urbanization, and socio-economic inequality are increasing the severity of urban challenges, emphasizing the imperative for a resilient built environment. Yet, architectural education has lagged in adopting resilience principles into its central curricula. This paper critiques dominant pedagogical paradigms and identifies shortcomings in interdisciplinary collaboration, digital tool adoption, and practical problem-solving. Moving its focus from local to international best practices for resilience, the study extracts key dimensions for learning architecture and explores case studies in leading schools that reflect pioneering, resilience-centric pedagogies. The findings highlight the importance of scenario-based learning, participatory design, and the use of technologies like AI, GIS, and digital twins to strengthen resilience. The article also explores how policy reformulation, accreditation mandates, and cross-sector collaborations can enforce the institutionalization of resilience education. It demands a pedagogical shift toward climate adaptation design studios, inter/transdisciplinary methods, and technological skills. The study ends with action guidelines for teachers, policymakers, and industry professionals who want to ensure that architectural education becomes responsive to resilient urban futures. Full article

This article summarizes the scope and content of the Special Issue (SI) entitled “Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Cartography for a Sustainable World” and its contribution to the global discourse regarding sustainability concerns. At the heart of the discussion in this SI lies: (i) GIS, a valuable tool and a means for modeling, designing, and analyzing (spatial) data and processes related to the pursuance of sustainability objectives at both local and global scales; and (ii) Cartography as a discipline, which through maps and visualizations can convey the present state. The latter can play a vital role in educating, empowering, and raising public awareness with regard to sustainability concerns on the one hand, and can form a basis for policy-makers, scientists, and citizens for articulating effective sustainability strategies on the other. The fulfillment of the SI goals is attained through a collection of 26 papers that delve into and attempt to visualize sustainability achievements or concerns on a variety of themes in different parts of the world. More specifically, the content of this collection of papers can be categorized into the following sustainability-related themes: Urbanization, Transportation, Carbon Emissions Management, Infrastructure, Rural Development, and Climate Change. The main conclusion is that planning and implementing sustainability policies is a challenging and multi-level task, and must be carried out within a fully dynamic decision environment. Although some progress has already been made, more intensive and collective efforts from scientists, governments, the entrepreneurial community, and citizens are needed in order for the ambitious goals of Agenda 2030 to be reached. Full article

The selection of a suitable site for a new university in southern Jordan involves a comprehensive approach to ensure sustainability, accessibility, and community service. This study applies a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based weighted overlay analysis, integrating multiple spatial criteria to identify optimal locations. Key factors include terrain characteristics, such as elevated or moderately sloped areas; proximity to main roads for accessibility; and distance from industrial zones, water bodies, and existing universities to minimize environmental and educational overlap. Additionally, proximity to populated areas, health facilities, and banking services is prioritized to enhance convenience and support for the university community. The criteria were assigned different weights, with population and residential areas receiving the highest priority (30%), followed by terrain, roads, and existing institutions (14% each). The results showed that around 8% of the study area was classified as highly suitable, 22% as moderately suitable, and 70% as unsuitable. The top three locations achieved suitability scores exceeding 85%, being situated near major roads, within 2 km of populated areas, and in terrain with slopes under 15%. The GIS-based model offers a replicable framework for similar projects, facilitating data-driven decision-making in higher education planning. Full article

Background/Objectives: Diagnostic reasoning is essential in clinical practice and medical education, yet it often becomes an automated process, making its cognitive mechanisms less visible. Despite the widespread use of electronic medical records, few studies have quantitatively evaluated how clinicians’ reasoning is documented in real-world electronic medical records. This study aimed to investigate whether initial electronic medical records contain valuable information for diagnostic reasoning and assess the feasibility of using text analysis and logistic regression to make this reasoning process visible. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of initial electronic medical records at Kochi University Hospital between 2008 and 2022. Two patient cohorts presenting with dizziness and headaches were analysed. Text analysis was performed using GiNZA, a Japanese natural language processing library, and logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify associations with final diagnoses. Results: We identified 1277 dizziness cases, of which 248 were analysed, revealing 48 significant diagnostic terms. Moreover, we identified 1904 headache cases, of which 616 were analysed, revealing 46 significant diagnostic terms. The logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the presence of specific terms, as well as whether they were expressed affirmatively or negatively, was significantly associated with diagnostic outcomes. Conclusions: Initial EMRs contain quantifiable linguistic cues relevant to diagnostic reasoning. Even simple analytical methods can reveal reasoning patterns, offering valuable insights for medical education and supporting the development of explainable diagnostic support systems. Full article

Urban trails, as vital urban spaces that integrate historical context with contemporary life, play a central role in the rise of deep tourism and the “City Walk” phenomenon. Their spatial legibility positions them as distinctive narrative media, serving as a key channel for promoting urban sustainable development and enhancing citizens’ sense of well-being. However, existing research has yet to establish a comprehensive and systematic framework for evaluating the “spatial narrative” of urban trail systems. This study proposes a dual-perspective quantitative framework for evaluating a spatial narrative, combining objective spatial dimensions with human experiential data to identify strengths and potentials for improvement. The Southwest Regional Trail in Chongqing (comprising the Zhongshan Fourth Road Section, People’s Assembly Hall Section, and Datianwan Section) was used as a case study. First, multi-source spatial data were analyzed via space syntax and ArcGIS to evaluate narrative value from an objective spatial perspective. Next, in-depth questionnaire interviews were conducted to collect subjective data, which were analyzed in SPSS to produce a structured analysis of participant feedback. The findings indicate that (1) Among the three sections of the Southwest Regional Trail, the narrative potential zones rank highest in the Zhongshan Fourth Road Section, followed by the People’s Assembly Hall Section and the Datianwan Section. (2) Urban trails characterized by rich narrative themes and cultural activities are more attractive to visitors. (3) The qualities of narrative symbols, routes, and educational elements are the key factors that specifically influence visitors’ satisfaction with the narrative experience on urban trails. Based on these results, we propose targeted planning and design recommendations for the Southwest Regional Trail. The evaluation methodology and process proposed in this study can provide references for design professionals and relevant urban development departments in conducting spatial narrative quantitative evaluations and optimizing sustainability place-making strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy (CT) or radiotherapy (RT) are at increased risk of oral complications. Preventive dental care has been proposed to mitigate these risks, yet its effectiveness is not sufficiently evaluated. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of preventive oral health interventions on key clinical outcomes in oncology patients. Methods: A systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL databases was conducted (March 2025), adhering to PRISMA guidelines with a PROSPERO-registered protocol (CRD 420251006799). Eligible studies included randomized trials, cohort studies, and pre–post intervention studies evaluating preventive dental care in patients receiving CT or RT. The outcomes included gingival index (GI), dental caries (DMFT), plaque levels, and periodontal health. Meta-analyses were performed on GI and DMFT outcomes using random-effects models. Results: Eleven studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and four in the meta-analyses. Preventive interventions, such as fluoride applications, oral hygiene education, and regular professional cleanings, were associated with stabilization or improvement of gingival health. The pooled estimate for GI showed no significant deterioration over time (MD = −0.05, 95% CI: −0.34 to 0.24, p = 0.72). For DMFT, a slight but significant increase was observed (MD = 1.07, 95% CI: 0.08 to 2.05, p = 0.03), suggesting a continued risk of caries despite intervention. Conclusions: Preventive dental care interventions appear to support the maintenance of gingival health in cancer patients undergoing CT or RT. However, despite these interventions, a slight increase in dental caries was still observed, indicating that preventive strategies may not fully eliminate the risk of caries. These findings highlight the importance of sustained and individualized oral health programs as part of comprehensive oncology care. Future studies using standardized protocols and longer follow-up periods are needed to better evaluate their long-term effectiveness across diverse cancer populations. Full article

Personalised nutrition education (PNE) can enhance blood glucose control (BGC). We determined whether patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) adhered to PNE based on glycemic index (GI), glycemic load (GL), and food insulin index (FII) principles and whether adherence was associated with improved BGC. This retrospective cohort included 67 files for patients who received PNE. The patients completed 3-day food and blood glucose records at three points over 90 days. HbA1c values were compared between time points. An adherence score sheet (ASS) was used to determine their adherence to PNE and the main meal adherence classification (MMAC). A one-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess the changes over time. A chi-square test determined the association between the MMAC and blood glucose levels falling within the targeted ranges. Correlations between dietary adherence and BGC indicators were examined using Pearson’s product–moment correlation. Adherence ranged from 88 to 95%. MMAC score was significantly associated with blood glucose being within the targeted ranges (p = 0.028). Mean blood glucose decreased over time, but the correlations with adherence were only significant at time point 1 (p = 0.029). HbA1c levels decreased significantly over time (p = 0.003), but their correlation with adherence was not significant (p > 0.05). In patients with T2DM, high adherence to PNE based on GI, GL, and FII principles was associated with improved BGC. Full article

Analyzing the population’s access to ecosystem services offered by urban greening constitutes a measure of environmental justice, as it directly affects the quality of life and health of the population living in cities. This article is committed to proposing a geoenvironmental model in a geographic information system (GIS), envisaged to estimate the share of urban forests and green spaces in territorial planning units (TPUs), corresponding to neighborhoods of a pilot city, using high-spatial-resolution images of the China–Brazil Earth Resources Satellite (CBERS-4A) and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). These data were combined by means of a Boolean analysis with social vulnerability indicators assessed from census data related to income, education, housing, and sanitation. This model ultimately aims to identify priority areas for urban afforestation in the context of environmental justice and is thus targeted to improve the inhabitants’ quality of life. The municipality of Goiânia, the capital of Goiás state, located in the Brazilian Central–West Region, was chosen as the study area for this experiment. Goiânia presents 19.5% of its urban territory (82.36 km²) covered by vegetation. The analyses indicate an inequity in the distribution of urban forest patches and green areas in this town, where 7.8% of the total TPUs have low priority, 28.2% have moderate to low priority, 42.2% have moderate to high priority, and 21.8% have high priority for urban afforestation. This urban greening imbalance is particularly observed in its most urbanized central nuclei, associated with a peripheralization of social vulnerability. These findings are meant to support initiatives towards sound territorial planning processes designed to promote more sustainable and equal development to ensure environmental justice and combat climate change. Full article