Search Results (2,121)

This study examines the factors influencing the adoption of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems within Romanian organizations. The objective is to develop a comprehensive framework for ERP adoption decisions, thereby advancing the field of knowledge and offering managerial insights. To accomplish this research goal, a questionnaire is envisioned, employing various research hypotheses, and distributed to a representative sample. Quantitative econometric regression analysis is employed, considering potential factors such as user training and education, competitive pressures, user involvement and participation, decentralized ERP features, top management support, data quality, the quality of the ERP system, cost and budget considerations, and business process reengineering. Of the 12 factors analyzed, 9 were found to be relevant in terms of influence on the decision to adopt ERP systems, in the context of the Romanian market. The other three factors were found to be irrelevant, thus obtaining results partially different from other areas of the world. By validating the hypotheses and answering the research questions, this work addresses a research gap regarding the lack of a comprehensive understanding of the influencing factors that shape the adoption process of ERP systems in Romania. Full article

Joint attention, the capacity of two or more individuals to focus on a common event simultaneously, is fundamental to human–human interaction, enabling effective communication. When considering the field of social robotics, emulating this capability might be necessary for promoting natural interactions and thus improving user engagement. Responding to joint attention (RJA), defined as the ability to react to external attentional cues by aligning focus with another individual, plays a critical role in promoting mutual understanding. This study examines how RJA impacts user engagement during human–robot interaction. The participants play a turn-taking game against a social robot under two conditions: with our RJA system active and with the system inactive. Auditory and visual stimuli are introduced to simulate real-world dynamics, testing the robot’s ability to detect and follow the user’s focus of attention. We use a twofold approach to evaluate the system’s impact on the user’s experience during the interaction. On the one hand, we use head pose telemetry to quantify attentional aspects of engagement, including measures of distraction and focus during the interaction. On the other hand, we use a post-experimental questionnaire incorporating the User Engagement Scale Short Form to assess engagement. The results regarding telemetry data reveal reduced distraction and improved attentional consistency, highlighting the system’s ability to maintain attention on the current task effectively. Furthermore, the questionnaire responses show that RJA significantly enhances self-reported engagement when the system is active. We believe these findings confirm the value of attentional mechanisms in promoting engaging human–robot interactions. Full article

Phubbing, a relatively new phenomenon in the field of digital risks, refers to the act of ignoring someone in favor of focusing on a smartphone during face-to-face interactions. Parental phubbing, a specific form of this behavior, is a prevalent negative parenting practice that can affect parent–child relationships and child development. However, the impact of parental phubbing on the emotional and behavioral development of preschool children remains unclear. This study aims to explore the relationship between parental phubbing and preschoolers’ behavioral problems, as well as test whether parents’ mindful attention awareness (MAA) acts as a mediator between them. Method: A questionnaire was administered to 138 Italian parents (mean age = 38.5, SD = 6.2) of 138 kindergarten preschoolers (mean age = 3.9, SD = 1.03). Questionnaires included the Generic Scale of Phubbing (GSP), the Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Results: Analyses revealed a significant negative correlation between the MAAS and SDQ total scores, a positive correlation between the GSP total score and the SDQ total score, and a negative correlation between the GSP total score and the MAAS total score. The mediation analysis did not show a direct effect of GSP on SDQ, suggesting that parental phubbing did not directly predict children’s behavioral difficulties. Nevertheless, the indirect effect measured by bootstrapping was significant, indicating that parental MAA fully mediated the relationship between parental phubbing and preschoolers’ problematic behaviors. Conclusions: Although further research is needed, parental mindfulness may influence phubbing behaviors in parents providing valuable insights for early interventions aimed at reducing problem behaviors in young children. Full article

The European Union Council’s zero vision aims to eliminate workplace fatalities, while Industry 4.0 presents new challenges for occupational safety. Despite HR professionals assessing managers’ and employees’ competencies, no system currently exists to evaluate the competencies of workers’ representatives in occupational safety and health (OSH). It is crucial to establish the necessary competencies for these representatives to avoid their selection based on personal bias, ambition, or coercion. The main objective of the study is to identify the competencies and their components required for workers’ representatives in the field of occupational safety and health by following the steps of the DACUM method with the assistance of OSH professionals. First, tasks were identified through semi-structured interviews conducted with eight occupational safety experts. In the second step, a focus group consisting of 34 OSH professionals (2 invited guests and 32 volunteers) determined the competencies and their components necessary to perform those tasks. Finally, the results were validated through an online questionnaire sent to the 32 volunteer participants of the focus group, from which 11 responses (34%) were received. The research categorized the competencies into the following three groups: core competencies (occupational safety and professional knowledge) and distinguishing competencies (personal attributes). Within occupational safety knowledge, 10 components were defined; for professional expertise, 7 components; and for personal attributes, 16 components. Based on the results, it was confirmed that all participants of the tripartite system have an important role in the training and development of workers’ representatives in the field of occupational safety and health. The results indicate that although OSH representation is not yet a priority in Hungary, there is a willingness to collaborate with competent, well-prepared representatives. The study emphasizes the importance of clearly defining and assessing the required competencies. Full article

Students, particularly those in the medical field, are exposed to various stressors that can affect their health-related behaviors, including smoking habits, with implications for oral health and quality of life. Background and Objectives: to analyze the relationship between smoking, oral health, perceived stress level, and self-assessed quality of life in a sample of dental students. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study included 338 students, who completed validated questionnaires and were clinically examined. Lifestyle was assessed using a smoking behavior questionnaire, stress levels were measured with the Student Stress Inventory (SSI), and quality of life was evaluated using the EQ-5D-5L instrument. The DMFT index was calculated to determine oral health status. Results: Among the 338 participating students, 53.8% were smokers. The lifestyle analysis revealed slightly higher average scores among non-smokers across all domains—social (3.26 vs. 3.09), attitudinal (2.75 vs. 2.97), and behavioral (3.82 vs. 3.49), but without statistically significant differences (p > 0.25). The mean DMFT score was 12.48, with no significant differences between smokers and non-smokers (p = 0.554). The SSI total score averaged 83.15, indicating a moderate level of perceived stress, again with no statistically significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). However, slightly higher average stress scores among smokers may suggest the use of smoking as a coping mechanism. In contrast, quality of life as measured by EQ-5D-5L showed significantly worse outcomes for smokers across all five dimensions, including mobility (78.6% vs. 95.5%, p = 0.000) and self-care (93.4% vs. 100%, p = 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression identified smoking (OR = 1.935; p = 0.047) and moderate stress levels (OR = 0.258; p < 0.001) as independent predictors of oral health status. Conclusions: The results obtained suggest that smoking may function as a stress management strategy among students, supporting the relevance of integrating specific psychobehavioral interventions that address stress reduction and oral health promotion among student populations. Full article

Postharvest losses amongst small-scale farmers in developing countries are high due to inadequate resources and infrastructure. Among the various affected crops, tomatoes are particularly vulnerable; however, studies on postharvest losses of most fruits and vegetables are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to assess postharvest tomato losses under different production systems within the small-scale supply chain using the indirect assessment (questionnaires and interviews) and direct quantification of losses. Farmers reported tomato losses due to insects (82.35%), cracks, bruises, and deformities (70.58%), and diseases (64.71%). Chemical sprays were the main form of pest and disease control reported by all farmers. The direct quantification sampling data revealed that 73.07% of the tomatoes were substandard at the farm level, with 47.92% and 25.15% categorized as medium-quality and poor-quality, respectively. The primary contributors to the losses were decay (39.92%), mechanical damage (31.32%), and blotchiness (27.99%). Postharvest losses were significantly higher under open-field production systems compared to closed tunnels. The fungi associated with decay were mainly Geotrichum, Fusarium spp., and Alternaria spp. These findings demonstrate the main drivers behind postharvest losses, which in turn highlight the critical need for intervention through training and support, including the use of postharvest loss reduction technologies to enhance food security. Full article

Background: Insomnia and excessive sleepiness are significant health problems with a complex etiology, increasingly affecting young people, especially students. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of sleep disturbances and patterns of psychoactive drug use among female Polish students. We also explored the potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on sleep behaviors. We hypothesized that sleep disorders are common in this group, that medical students are more likely to experience insomnia and excessive sleepiness, and that the pandemic has exacerbated both sleep disturbances and substance use. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized a custom survey designed using standardized questionnaires—the Athens Insomnia Scale and Epworth Sleepiness Scale—that was distributed online using the Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing method. A total of 11,988 responses were collected from 31 January 2016 to 1 January 2021. Inclusion criteria were being female, having a college student status, and giving informed consent. Results: Among the 11,988 participants, alcohol use declined after the pandemic began (p = 0.001), while sedative use increased (p < 0.001). Insomnia (AIS) was associated with study year, university profile, and field of study (p < 0.001), with the highest rates in first-year and non-medical students. It was more common among users of sedatives, psychostimulants, and multiple substances. No significant change in insomnia was found before and after the pandemic. Excessive sleepiness (ESS) peaked in first-year and medical students. It decreased during the pandemic (p < 0.001) and was linked to the use of alcohol, psychostimulants, cannabinoids, and multiple substances. Conclusions: These findings highlight that female students are particularly vulnerable to sleep disorders. The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on sleep disturbances remains inconclusive. Given the varied results in the existing literature, further research is needed. Full article

Growing awareness of sustainable development and green consumer concerns is driving the market expansion for green agriculture products. E-commerce live streaming gives rural enterprises a new channel through scenario-building and interaction, while agro-tourism integration combines resources to generate a variety of promotion scenarios. This study examines the effects of external stimuli, including social networks, resource endowment, infrastructure, and the characteristics of e-commerce streamers, on the perception, trust, perceived value, and purchase intention of green consumption. It is based on the SOR (Stimulus–Organism–Response) theoretical model and focuses on e-commerce live streaming in the agriculture-tourism integration scenario. According to a structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis of 350 consumer questionnaires, these external stimuli primarily influence purchase intention through perceived value, trust, and green consumption cognition, with resource endowment having the most significant impact. The effects of infrastructure on perceived value and streamer attractiveness on green consumption cognition are not statistically significant. This research not only broadens the use of the SOR model in the emerging field of agritourism integration but also offers rural businesses theoretical backing and useful guidance to maximize e-commerce live marketing and enhance agritourism integration. Full article

Ensuring a sustainable and healthy human environment in university dormitories is essential for students’ learning, living, and overall health and well-being. To address this need, we carried out a series of systematic field measurements of the noise levels at 30 dormitories in three representative major urban universities in a major provincial capital city in China and designed and implemented a comprehensive questionnaire and surveyed 1005 students about their perceptions of their acoustic environment. We proposed and applied a sustainability–health-oriented, multidimensional assessment framework to assess the acoustic environment of the dormitories and student responses to natural sound, technological sounds, and human-made sounds. Using the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach combined with the field measurements and student surveys, we identified three categories and six factors on student health and well-being for assessing the acoustic environment of university dormitories. The field data indicated that noise levels at most of the measurement points exceeded the recommended or regulatory thresholds. Higher noise impacts were observed in early mornings and evenings, primarily due to traffic noise and indoor activities. Natural sounds (e.g., wind, birdsong, water flow) were highly valued by students for their positive effect on the students’ pleasantness and satisfaction. Conversely, human and technological sounds (traffic noise, construction noise, and indoor noise from student activities) were deemed highly disturbing. Gender differences were evident in the assessment of the acoustic environment, with male students generally reporting higher levels of the pleasantness and preference for natural sounds compared to female students. Educational backgrounds showed no significant influence on sound perceptions. The findings highlight the need for providing actionable guidelines for dormitory ecological design, such as integrating vertical greening in dormitory design, water features, and biodiversity planting to introduce natural soundscapes, in parallel with developing campus activity standards and lifestyle during noise-sensitive periods. The multidimensional assessment framework will drive a sustainable human–ecology–sound symbiosis in university dormitories, and the category and factor scales to be employed and actions to improve the level of student health and well-being, thus, providing a reference for both research and practice for sustainable cities and communities. Full article

Background/Objectives: The field of dietary supplements is changing and evolving quickly. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists are recognized as experts in nutrition and familiarity with the usage of dietary supplements is expected. However, education on the use of dietary supplements is not equal across accredited dietetic education programs, which can lead to disparities in dietitians’ feelings of preparedness, attitudes, and consequently experience of comfort regarding dietary supplements. The purpose of this study was to create the D-SCOPE Questionnaire (Dietitians’ Survey of Comfort, Opinions, and Preparedness in Education in Supplements) and validate it. This questionnaire assesses Registered Dietitian Nutritionists’ feelings of preparedness, comfort with use, and general attitudes in the field of dietary supplements. Methods: Face and content validity was established with dietitian, nutritionist, and statistician input. For recruitment, 2000 national randomly selected emails were obtained from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (n = 248) responded to the survey email request. Descriptive statistics (reported as means ± standard deviation), principal axis factoring (exploratory factor analysis) with a direct oblimin rotation and Cronbach’s a reliability analysis were used for validation techniques. Results: Five factors were created, which explained about 63% of the variance in the questionnaire. The questionnaire was generally reliable, but the factor structure could change with a non-US population. Conclusions: As a unit, the D-SCOPE Questionnaire shows validity and reliability in assessing Registered Dietitian Nutritionists’ perceptions of preparedness and attitudes in the area related to dietary supplements. Full article

This study explores the potential of immersive virtual reality (IVR) to enhance knowledge transfer in vocational education, particularly in bridging the gap between academic learning and practical workplace application. The focus lies on relevant predictors for actual learning transfer, namely knowledge acquisition and the transfer-related self-efficacy. Additionally, the Cognitive Affective Model of Immersive Learning (CAMIL) is used to investigate potential predictors in IVR learning. This approach allows for empirical testing of the CAMIL and validation of its assumptions using empirical data. To address the research questions, a quasi-experimental field study was conducted with 141 retail trainees at a German vocational school. Participants were assigned to either an IVR group or a control group receiving traditional instruction. The intervention spanned four teaching sessions of 90 min each, focusing on the design of a retail sales area based on sales-promoting principles. To assess subject-related learning outcomes, a domain-specific knowledge test was developed. In addition, transfer-related self-efficacy and other relevant constructs were measured using Likert-scale questionnaires. The results show that IVR-based instruction significantly improves knowledge acquisition and transfer-related self-efficacy compared to traditional teaching methods. In terms of the CAMIL-based mechanisms, significant correlations were found between transfer-related self-efficacy and factors such as interest, motivation, academic self-efficacy, embodiment, and self-regulation. Additionally, correlations were found between knowledge acquisition and relevant predictors such as interest, motivation, and self-regulation. These findings underscore IVR’s potential to facilitate knowledge transfer in vocational school, highlighting the need for further research on its long-term effects and the actual application of learned skills in real-world settings. Full article

Muscle–joint flexibility is defined as the ability of a muscle to stretch in a controlled manner, allowing a wide range of movement at the joints. While numerous methodologies exist for improving flexibility, few studies have investigated the role of athletes’ perceptual processes and awareness related to their own body and movement control during such training. In this pilot study, we explored how two different training protocols—static and dynamic stretching (control group, CON) and multi-joint resistance training (experimental group, EXP)—influence both flexibility and psychophysical awareness, understood as a multidimensional construct involving perceived flexibility improvements, self-assessed control over exercise execution, and cognitive-emotional responses such as engagement, motivation, and satisfaction during physical effort. The study involved 24 male amateur track-and-field athletes (mean age 23 ± 2.5 years), randomized into two equal groups. Over 12 weeks, both groups trained three times per week. Flexibility was assessed using the Sit and Reach Test at three time points (pre-, mid-, and post-intervention). A 2 × 3 mixed ANOVA revealed a significant group × time interaction (F = 20.17, p < 0.001), with the EXP group showing greater improvements than the CON group. In the EXP group, Sit and Reach scores increased from pre = 28.55 cm (SD = 4.91) to mid = 29.39 cm (SD = 4.67) and post = 29.48 cm (SD = 4.91), with a significant difference between pre and post (p = 0.01; d = 0.35). The CON group showed minimal changes, with scores of pre = 28.66 cm (SD = 4.92), mid = 28.76 cm (SD = 5.03), and post = 28.84 cm (SD = 5.10), and no significant difference between pre and post (p = 0.20; d = 0.04). Psychophysical awareness was assessed using a custom questionnaire structured on a 5-point Likert scale, with items addressing perception of flexibility, motor control, and exercise-related bodily sensations. The questionnaire showed excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.92). Within the EXP group, psychophysical awareness increased significantly (from 3.50 to 4.17; p = 0.01; d = 0.38), while no significant change occurred in the CON group (p = 0.16). Post-hoc power analysis confirmed small to moderate effect sizes within the EXP group, although between-group differences lacked sufficient statistical power. These results suggest that resistance training may improve flexibility and concurrently enhance athletes’ psychophysical self-awareness more effectively than traditional stretching. Such findings offer practical implications for coaches seeking to optimize flexibility training by integrating alternative methods that promote both physical and perceptual adaptations. Full article

Background: Skipping breakfast, a prevalent issue among children and adolescents, has been reported to be associated with academic performance and long-term health. However, less attention has been given to the types of breakfast foods consumed. Therefore, our study aims to investigate the association between breakfast variety and dietary knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among preadolescents. Methods: The study included 1449 students in grades 4–6 from Zhongshan city, Guangdong province. Data were collected through face-to-face field investigation using a validated questionnaire. The questionnaire encompassed sociodemographic characteristics, as well as dietary KAP. Results: Among all participants, 1315 reported consuming breakfast daily. Dietary diversity varied significantly: 8.8% consumed only 1 type of food, 52.9% consumed 2–4 types, and 38.3% consumed ≥5 types. Students who consumed a greater variety of breakfast foods exhibited more favorable dietary and lifestyle patterns. Specifically, those who consumed ≥5 types of food showed statistically significant associations with healthier practices, including reduced intake of sugary beverages and night snacks, stronger adherence to dietary guidelines, more positive attitudes toward improving eating habits, longer sleep durations, increased participation in meal preparation, greater dish variety in meals, and higher engagement in daily physical activity. Conclusions: Breakfast variety was associated with KAP, particularly when breakfast types ≥ 5, providing more sufficient and favorable evidence for breakfast consumption. Full article

Advanced technologies, such as robotic process automation, blockchain, and machine learning, increase audit efficiency. Nonetheless, some Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) have not undergone digital transformation. This research aimed to develop a comprehensive framework for supreme audit institutions to adopt and integrate emerging technologies into their auditing processes using a hybrid theoretical approach based on the TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) and TOE (Technology–Organisation–Environment) models. The framework was informed by insights from nineteen highly experienced experts in the field from eight countries. Through a two-round Delphi questionnaire, the experts provided valuable input on the key factors, challenges, and strategies for successful technology adoption by public sector audit organisations. The findings of this research reveal that technology adoption in SAIs starts with solid management support led by the chief technology officer. They must evaluate the IT infrastructure and readiness for advanced technologies, considering the budget and funding. Integrating solutions like the SAI of Ghana’s Audit Management Information System can significantly enhance audit efficiency. Continuous staff training is essential to build a positive attitude toward new technologies, covering areas like data algorithm auditing and big data analysis. Assessing the complexity and compatibility of new technologies ensures ease of use and cost-effectiveness. Continuous support from technology providers and monitoring advancements will keep SAIs aligned with technological developments, enhancing their auditing capabilities. Full article

Background: Hearing loss is increasingly prevalent and poses a significant public health concern. While both aging and occupational noise exposure are recognized contributors, their interactive effects and gender-specific patterns remain underexplored. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 135,251 employees in Jiangsu Province, China. Demographic information, noise exposure metrics, and hearing thresholds were obtained through field measurements, questionnaires, and audiometric testing. Multivariate logistic regression, restricted cubic spline modeling, and interaction analyses were conducted. Machine learning models were employed to assess feature importance. Results: A nonlinear relationship between age and high-frequency hearing loss (HFHL) was identified, with a critical inflection point at 37.8 years. Noise exposure significantly amplified HFHL risk, particularly in older adults (OR = 2.564; 95% CI: 2.456–2.677, p < 0.001), with consistent findings across genders. Men exhibited greater susceptibility at high frequencies, even after adjusting for age and co-exposures. Aging and noise exposure have a joint association with hearing loss (OR = 2.564; 95% CI: 2.456–2.677, p < 0.001) and an interactive association (additive interaction: RERI = 2.075, AP = 0.502, SI = 2.967; multiplicative interaction: OR = 1.265; 95% CI: 1.176–1.36, p < 0.001). And machine learning also confirmed age, gender, and noise exposure as key predictors. Conclusions: Aging and occupational noise exert synergistic effects on auditory decline, with distinct gender disparities. These findings highlight the need for integrated, demographically tailored occupational health strategies. Machine learning approaches further validate key risk factors and support targeted screening for hearing loss prevention. Full article