Search Results (4,457)

This work introduces a new family of multivariate hybrid special polynomials, motivated by their growing relevance in mathematical modeling, physics, and engineering. We explore their core properties, including recurrence relations and shift operators, within a unified structural framework. By employing the factorization method, we derive various governing equations such as differential, partial differential, and integrodifferential equations. Additionally, we establish a related fractional Volterra integral equation, which broadens the theoretical foundation and potential applications of these polynomials. To support the theoretical development, we carry out computational simulations to approximate their roots and visualize the distribution of their zeros, offering practical insights into their analytical behavior. Full article

Physics concepts are considered an essential component of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education and fundamental for economic and technological development in the world. However, there can be student academic underperformance, such as the school environment, learning media and infrastructure, student interest and emotions, as well as social and economic development factors in communities. These problems are even more acute in rural areas of developing countries, where poverty is high and teachers often lack the necessary technological skills. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a low-cost STEM tool focused on motivation in learning, in terms of five variables of interest in physics in rural areas, as well as the durability of the tools used to learn 12 physics concepts. A quasi-experimental study was conducted with the participation of 78 high school students, with an average age of 15.82 years, in a rural area of Guerrero, Mexico. The results showed that using the STEM tool significantly increased students’ interest in learning methodology, active participation, and attitude towards physics, facilitating the teacher’s work. In addition, the 3D construction kit used in the experimentation, besides being low-cost, proved to be affordable and durable, making it ideal for use in rural areas. Full article

This study aims to clarify how different types of motivation influence employee retention by identifying the distinct roles of intrinsic and extrinsic factors in shaping job satisfaction, particularly under varying levels of urban stress and generational identity. Drawing on Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory and Self-Determination Theory, we distinguish between intrinsic drivers (e.g., autonomy, achievement) and extrinsic hygiene factors (e.g., pay, stability). Using survey data from 356 Chinese employees and applying PLS-SEM with a moderated mediation design, we investigate how urbanization and Generation Z moderate these relationships. Results show that intrinsic motivation enhances satisfaction, especially in urban settings, while extrinsic factors negatively affect satisfaction when perceived as insufficient or unfair. Job satisfaction mediates the relationship between motivation and retention, although this effect is weaker among Generation Z employees. These findings refine motivational theories by demonstrating how environmental pressure and generational values jointly shape employee attitudes. The study contributes a context-sensitive framework for understanding retention by integrating individual motivation with macro-level moderators, offering practical implications for managing diverse and urbanizing labor markets. Full article

Understanding the factors that drive green buying intentions has become critical, as environmental issues continue to rise globally. The study investigates the influence of environmental commitment and green motivation on environmental identity and green purchasing intentions. Additionally, it assesses the mediating role of environmental identity in the relationships between environmental commitment, green motivation, and green purchasing intentions. Moreover, it examines the moderating effect of eco-conscious behaviour on the relationships between environmental commitment, green motivation, green identity, and green purchasing intentions. A total of 440 participants, who stayed in high-rate hotels in Sharm el-Sheikh, were asked to fill out the survey distributed. (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze data. The study outcomes confirmed that environmental commitment and green motivation significantly affect green identity and purchasing behavior. Besides, the results showed the essential mediator contribution of the environmental identity between environmental commitment and green motivation. In addition, it explains eco-conscious behavior as a moderator between the previously mentioned variables. The study contributes to the existing tourism literature by demonstrating the impact of green commitment and environmental motivation on making choices to buy eco-friendly products. Moreover, the results hold significant implications for researchers, policymakers, and tourism stakeholders. Full article

This study explores the role of egoistic and altruistic values on green real estate purchase intention among young consumers in Canada aged between 20 and 40 years. In addition, this study examines the mediating effects of pro-environmental self-identity between social consumption motivation and green real estate purchase intention. A quantitative cross-sectional research design with an explanatory nature is employed. A total of 432 participating consumers in Canada, comprising 44% men and 48% women, with a graduate educational background accounting for 46.7%, and the ages between 24 and 35 contributing 75.2%, were part of the study, and the data collection used a survey method with a purposive sampling, followed by a respondent-driven method. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed on the scales used for the study variables. A structural equational model and path analysis were conducted to derive the results, and the relationships were positive and significant. The study results infer the factors contributing to green real estate purchase intention, including altruistic value, egoistic value, social consumption motivation, and pro-environmental self-identity, with pro-environmental self-identity mediating the relationship. This study emphasizes the relevance of consumer values in real estate purchasing decisions, urging developers and marketers to prioritize ethical ideas, sustainable practices, and building a feeling of belonging and social connectedness. Offering eco-friendly amenities and green construction methods might attract clients, but creating a secure area for social interaction is critical. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to explore the role of egoistic and altruistic values on purchase intention, mainly in the housing and real estate sector, with the target consumers being young consumers in Canada. Full article

As ad-supported subscription models proliferate across over-the-top (OTT) media platforms, understanding the psychological mechanisms and perceptual factors that underlie consumers’ transition decisions becomes increasingly consequential. This study integrates the Uses and Gratifications framework with a contemporary motivation-based perspective to examine how users’ media consumption motivations and advertising attitudes predict intentions to adopt ad-supported OTT plans. Data were collected via a nationally representative online survey in South Korea (N = 813). The sample included both premium subscribers (n = 708) and non-subscribers (n = 105). The findings reveal distinct segmentation in decision-making patterns. Among premium subscribers, switching intentions were predominantly driven by intrinsic motivations—particularly identity alignment with content—and by the perceived informational value of advertisements. These individuals are more likely to consider ad-supported plans when ad content is personally relevant and cognitively enriching. Conversely, non-subscribers exhibited greater sensitivity to extrinsic cues such as the entertainment value of ads and the presence of tangible incentives (e.g., discounts), suggesting a hedonic-reward orientation. By advancing a dual-pathway explanatory model, this study contributes to the theoretical discourse on digital subscription behavior and offers actionable insights for OTT service providers. The results underscore the necessity of segment-specific advertising strategies: premium subscribers may be engaged through informative and identity-consistent advertising, while non-subscribers respond more favorably to enjoyable and benefit-laden ad experiences. These insights inform platform monetization efforts amid the evolving dynamics of consumer attention and subscription fatigue. Full article

Resource-exhausted cities have long played a key role in national energy development. Urban renewal projects, such as the renovation of old underground commercial spaces, can improve urban vitality and promote sustainable development. However, in resource-based cities, traditional industries dominate, while new industries such as modern commerce develop slowly. This results in low economic dynamism and weak motivation for urban development. To address this issue, we propose a systematic method for analyzing construction risks during the decision-making stage of renovation projects. The method includes three steps: risk value assessment, risk factor identification, and risk weight calculation. First, unlike previous studies that only used SWOT for risk factor analysis, we also applied it for project value assessment. Then, using the Work Breakdown Structure–Risk Breakdown Structure framework method (WBS-RBS), we identified specific risk sources by analyzing key construction technologies throughout the entire lifecycle of the renovation project. Finally, to enhance expert consensus, we proposed an improved Delphi–Analytic Hierarchy Process method (Delphi–AHP) to calculate risk indicator weights for different construction phases. The risk analysis covered all lifecycle stages of the renovation and upgrading project. The results show that in the Fushun city renovation case study, the established framework—consisting of five first-level indicators and twenty s-level indicators—enables analysis of renovation projects. Among these, management factors and human factors were identified as the most critical, with weights of 0.3608 and 0.2017, respectively. The proposed method provides a structured approach to evaluating renovation risks, taking into account the specific characteristics of construction work. This can serve as a useful reference for ensuring safe and efficient implementation of underground commercial space renovation projects in resource-exhausted cities. Full article

Background and Objectives: Depression is a leading cause of disability globally, with treatment challenges including limited access, stigma, and poor adherence. Gamification, which applies game elements such as points, levels, and storytelling into non-game contexts, offers a promising strategy to enhance engagement and augment traditional treatments. Our research is the first study designed to explore the implementation of gamification within the Malaysian context. The objective was to explore the feasibility of implementation of gamification as an adjunctive treatment for adults with depression. Materials and Methods: Focus group discussions were held with five mental health professionals and ten patients diagnosed with moderate depression. The qualitative component assessed perceptions of gamified interventions, while quantitative measures evaluated participants’ depressive and anxiety symptomatology. Results: Three key themes were identified: (1) understanding of gamification as a treatment option, (2) factors influencing its acceptance, and (3) characteristics of a practical and feasible intervention. Clinicians saw potential in gamification to boost motivation, support psychoeducation, and encourage self-paced learning, but they expressed concerns about possible addiction, stigma, and the complexity of gameplay for some patients. Patients spoke of gaming as a source of comfort, escapism, and social connection. Acceptance was shaped by engaging storylines, intuitive design, balanced difficulty, therapist guidance, and clear safety measures. Both groups agreed that gamification should be used in conjunction with standard treatments, be culturally sensitive, and be presented as a meaningful therapeutic approach rather than merely as entertainment. Conclusions: Gamification emerges as an acceptable and feasible supplementary approach for managing depression in Malaysia. Its success depends on culturally sensitive design, robust clinical oversight, and seamless integration with existing care pathways. Future studies should investigate long-term outcomes and establish guidelines for the safe and effective implementation of this approach. We recommend targeted investment into culturally adapted gamified tools, including training, policy development, and collaboration with key stakeholders to realistically implement gamification as a mental health intervention in Malaysia. Full article

Sport volunteering plays an important role in achieving the goals of sustainable development by supporting the social dimension of sustainability, fostering social integration, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. However, there is a lack of systematic research in Poland on the motivations of sport volunteers, particularly in the context of mass endurance events. This study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional design involving 148 sport volunteers engaged in mass endurance events in Poznan, Poland. To measure motivation, the Polish adaptation of the VMS-ISE scale was used. Data analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that volunteer motivations were relatively homogeneous regardless of gender and education level, with the exception of passion for sport, which was significantly stronger among men (p = 0.037). Significant differences were found based on place of residence: residents of medium-sized cities demonstrated the highest motivation for personal development (p < 0.001), whereas individuals from rural areas exhibited stronger patriotism, a greater need for interpersonal interaction, and a higher valuation of external rewards (p < 0.05). The motivations of sport volunteers in Poland are complex and sensitive to environmental factors. Understanding these differences allows for better alignment of recruitment and volunteer management strategies, which can enhance both the effectiveness and sustainability of volunteer engagement. It is recommended to develop volunteer programs that take into account the demographic and socio-cultural characteristics of participants. Full article

Background/Objectives: Physical activity is a cornerstone of diabetes mellitus (DM) management and is strongly recommended in the American Diabetes Association (ADA)’s guidelines. This study aims to investigate the self-reported physical activity levels of individuals with DM in Germany, as well as the barriers and facilitators they encounter. Methods: Individuals with type 1 DM (T1DM) and type 2 DM (T2DM) were asked to fill out an online questionnaire that was partly based on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Results: The questionnaire was completed by 338 persons with either T1DM (57.1%) or T2DM (42.9%) (females: 56.2%, males: 42.0%, gender diverse persons: 1.8%) of all age groups (at least 18 years). In total, 80.5% of respondents were aware of the current physical activity recommendations. Among the respondents, 58% reported meeting the recommendations for endurance-type physical activity, while only 30.5% reported meeting those for strength training. The three most frequently cited barriers to physical activity were lack of time, lack of motivation and current state of health. Supporting factors included coverage of costs, availability of exercise programs in close proximity to the patient’s home and target group specific exercise programs. Conclusions: The results imply that many individuals with DM in Germany do not meet ADA’s physical activity recommendations, especially considering that self-reports often overestimate actual behavior. In particular, the actual number of individuals who regularly engage in strength training may be too low. There is a clear need to better communicate the benefits of different forms of physical training and to provide physical activity programs aligned with patients’ individual needs. Full article

This study aims to develop an optimal underwriting strategy for affordable (H1 and M1) and premium (L1 and M2) electric vehicles (EVs), balancing financial risk and sustainability commitments. The research is motivated by regulatory pressures, risk management needs, and sustainability goals, necessitating an adaptation of traditional underwriting models. The study employs a modified Delphi method with industry experts to identify key risk factors, including accident risk, repair costs, battery safety, driver behavior, and PCAF carbon impact. A sensitivity analysis was conducted to examine premium adjustments under different risk scenarios, categorizing EVs into four risk segments: Low-Risk, Low-Carbon (L1); Medium-Risk, Low-Carbon (M1); Medium-Risk, High-Carbon (M2); and High-Risk, High-Carbon (H1). Findings indicate that premium EVs (L1 and M2) exhibit lower volatility in underwriting costs, benefiting from advanced safety features, lower accident rates, and reduced carbon attribution penalties. Conversely, budget EVs (H1 and M1) experience higher premium fluctuations due to greater accident risks, costly repairs, and higher carbon costs under PCAF implementation. The worst-case scenario showed a 14.5% premium increase, while the best-case scenario led to a 10.5% premium reduction. The study recommends prioritizing premium EVs for insurance coverage due to their lower underwriting risks and carbon efficiency. For budget EVs, insurers should implement selective underwriting based on safety features, driver risk profiling, and energy efficiency. Additionally, incentive-based pricing such as telematics discounts, green repair incentives, and low-carbon charging rewards can mitigate financial risks and align with net-zero insurance commitments. This research provides a structured framework for insurers to optimize EV underwriting while ensuring long-term profitability and regulatory compliance. Full article

Participation in organized sport is widely encouraged for youth development, yet positive outcomes are not guaranteed. Parents play a pivotal role in shaping young athletes’ experiences, requiring emotional support, interpersonal skills, and self-regulation. This study examines the meanings parents attribute to their children’s sports participation and how young athletes construct their experiences under parental and coaching influences. An interpretive phenomenological methodology involved semi-structured interviews with coaches, focus groups with parents, and open-ended questionnaires to young athletes. Seventeen players (M = 11.2 years, SD = 0.59), nineteen parents (M = 47.6 years, SD = 3.61), and two coaches from the same football club volunteered to participate in the study. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure a homogeneous experience. The findings reveal that parental involvement balances support and pressure, while trust-building between parents and coaches significantly impacts the athletes’ experiences. The evolving role of technology and the importance of social dynamics within teams also emerged as critical factors. Intrinsic motivation, fostering emotional bonding through the sport, and adopting a developmental rather than purely competitive framework were emphasized factors identified as supporting positive youth sport experiences. These findings offer insights into how interconnected relationships among parents, coaches, and athletes influence children’s sports engagement and development. Full article

To enhance the performance of online food delivery (OFD) services, it is essential to strengthen consumers’ intentions to use OFD apps, which are the core interface of this business. Accordingly, this study aims to identify the cognitive mechanisms that shape consumers’ intentions to use OFD apps and explore strategies to encourage their adoption. To achieve this, the study develops a research model that incorporates segmented dimensions of service convenience as key motivational factors, along with variables from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). A survey was conducted among OFD consumers in China, and the proposed research model was empirically tested using data from 478 valid responses. The analysis revealed that all six dimensions of service convenience serve as significant motivational drivers of OFD app usage. Furthermore, the study demonstrates that consumers’ coupon proneness and user-generated online reviews have significant moderating effects that reinforce the mechanism by which consumers adopt and use OFD apps. The findings and implications discussed in this study are expected to provide valuable insights and practical guidance for formulating effective strategies to promote more active consumer engagement with OFD apps in the future. Full article

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a prevalent disorder linked to metabolic complications such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. By fragmenting normal sleep architecture, OSA perturbs the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor (GH/IGF) axis and alters circulating levels of IGF-binding proteins (IGFBPs). A prior clinical observation of elevated IGFBP4 in OSA patients motivated the present investigation in a controlled animal model. Building on the previously reported protocol, OSA was induced in male C57BL/6 mice (9–12 weeks old) through intralingual injection of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), producing tongue hypertrophy, intermittent airway obstruction, and hypoxemia. After 8–10 weeks, the study assessed (1) hypoxia biomarkers—including HIF-1α and VEGF expression—and (2) neurobehavioral outcomes in anxiety and cognition using the open-field and novel object recognition tests. PTFE-treated mice exhibited a significant increase in circulating IGFBP4 versus both baseline and control groups. Hepatic Igfbp4 mRNA was also upregulated. Behaviorally, PTFE mice displayed heightened anxiety-like behavior and impaired novel object recognition, paralleling cognitive deficits reported in human OSA. These findings validate the PTFE-induced model as a tool for studying OSA-related hypoxia and neurocognitive dysfunction, and they underscore IGFBP4 as a promising biomarker and potential mediator of OSA’s systemic effects. Full article

Non-agricultural business activity of farmers is crucial not only for stabilizing farm income but also for the multifunctional development of rural areas. Capturing changes in the level and nature of this activity supports the development of sustainable agricultural and rural policy. In this context, this study aimed to identify the scale and types of non-agricultural business activity and to recognize the main determinants of such business activities undertaken by farmers in Poland between 2002 and 2022. Sectoral-level data from the Agricultural Censuses and cyclical studies of the structure of farms and household budgets were used to approximate underlying motivations for running non-agricultural business (opportunity vs. necessity entrepreneurship). The findings indicate that, in Poland, the impact of regressive factors remains strong, pushing farmers to take on additional business activity due to the large share of small and very small farms. However, during the 21st century, a gradual spread of opportunity entrepreneurship among Polish farmers has been observed. This study highlights the rationale for supporting non-agriculture business activity motivated by progressive factors to increase the income resilience of farmer households and the sustainable development of agriculture. The article indicates the need for further research on the motives for undertaking non-agricultural economic activities by farmers and the impact of this activity on the allocation of farm resources. Full article