Search Results (788)

Despite the significant volume of empirical research found in student-authored academic theses—particularly in the social sciences—these works are often poorly documented and difficult to discover within institutional repositories. A key reason for this is the lack of appropriate metadata frameworks that balance descriptive richness with usability. General standards such as Dublin Core are too simplistic to capture critical research details, while more robust models like the Data Documentation Initiative (DDI) are too complex for non-specialist users and not designed for use with student theses. This paper presents the design and validation of a lightweight, web-based metadata framework specifically tailored to document empirical research in academic theses. We are the first to adapt existing hybrid Dublin Core–DDI approaches specifically for thesis documentation, with a novel focus on cross-methodological research and non-expert usability. The model was developed through a structured analysis of actual student theses and refined to support intuitive, structured metadata entry without requiring technical expertise. The resulting system enhances the discoverability, classification, and reuse of empirical theses within institutional repositories, offering a scalable solution to elevate the visibility of the gray literature in higher education. 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

The rapid evolution of Industry 4.0 technologies has resulted in a scenario in which collaborative networks are essential to overcome the challenges related to their implementation. However, the frameworks to guide such collaborations remain underexplored. This study addresses this gap by proposing Business Rules and Goals Models to operationalize Industry 4.0 solutions through enterprise collaboration. Using the For Enterprise Modeling (4EM) method, the research integrates qualitative insights from expert opinions, including interviews with 12 professionals (academics, industry professionals, and consultants) from Brazilian manufacturing sectors. The Goals Model identifies five main objectives—competitiveness, efficiency, flexibility, interoperability, and real-time collaboration—while the Business Rules Model outlines 18 actionable recommendations, such as investing in digital infrastructure, upskilling employees, and standardizing information technology systems. The results reveal that cultural resistance, limited resources, and knowledge gaps are critical barriers, while interoperability and stakeholder integration emerge as enablers of digital transformation. The study concludes that successfully adopting Industry 4.0 requires technological investments, organizational alignment, structured governance, and collaborative ecosystems. These models provide a practical roadmap for companies navigating the complexities of Industry 4.0, emphasizing adaptability and cross-functional synergy. The research contributes to the literature on collaborative networks by connecting theoretical frameworks with actionable enterprise-level strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: International students pursuing higher education in the United States face unique challenges that increase their risk of food insecurity, including limited financial resources, employment restrictions, and cultural barriers. While food insecurity among domestic students has been widely studied, limited research focuses on the lived experiences of international graduate students. This study explores the challenges, perceptions, and coping strategies related to food insecurity among international graduate students at a large public university in North Texas. Methods: This qualitative, ethnographic study involved 20 semi-structured interviews with international graduate students who were clients of the university’s food pantry. Participants were recruited using purposive convenience sampling. Interviews focused on students’ experiences with food access, financial constraints, campus resources, and cultural food preferences. Data were analyzed using thematic coding in MAXQDA. Two standardized food insecurity measures—the USDA and FAO scales—were also administered and analyzed using SPSS. Results: Findings revealed that 85% of participants experienced limited access to nutritious and culturally appropriate foods, with 70% reporting hunger due to financial constraints. Themes included lack of cooking skills, limited campus food options, difficulty accessing familiar groceries, and limited job opportunities. Students expressed that food insecurity significantly impacted their physical health, mental well-being, and social lives, though many continued to prioritize academics over personal nourishment. Conclusions: Food insecurity among international graduate students is multifaceted, shaped by financial, cultural, and institutional barriers. Addressing this issue requires culturally sensitive interventions, improved access to diverse food options, tailored student support services, and institutional efforts to better understand and meet the needs of international students. Full article

The complexity of assessment is a significant problem in designing renewable energy source (RES) products, especially when one wants to take into account their various aspects, e.g., technical, environmental, or social. Hence, the aim of the research is to develop a model supporting the decision-making process of RES product development based on meeting the criteria of quality, environmental impact, and social responsibility (QES). The model was developed in four main stages, implementing multi-criteria decision support methods such as DEMATEL (decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory) and TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution), as well as criteria for social responsibility and environmental impact from the ISO 26000 standard. The model was tested and illustrated using the example of photovoltaic panels (PVs): (i) five prototypes were developed, (ii) 30 PV criteria were identified from the qualitative, environmental, and social groups, (iii) the criteria were reduced to 13 key (strongly intercorrelated) criteria according to DEMATEL, (iv) the PV prototypes were assessed taking into account the importance and fulfilment of their key criteria according to TOPSIS, and (v) a PV ranking was created, where the fifth prototype turned out to be the most advantageous (QES = 0.79). The main advantage of the model is its simple form and transparency of application through a systematic analysis and evaluation of many different criteria, after which a ranking of design solutions is obtained. QES ensures precise decision-making in terms of sustainability of new or already available products on the market, also those belonging to RES. Therefore, QES will find application in various companies, especially those looking for low-cost decision-making support techniques at early stages of product development (design and conceptualization). Full article

In the last two decades, the prevalence of South Asian migrant workers has significantly increased in the UAE’s construction sector, and they are under huge debt. Although researchers heavily stress the role of employers in migrant workers’ debt, the role of debt before departure has not been investigated. Thus, this study bridges this gap in the literature in the context of South Asian construction migrant workers. The objective of this study is to investigate how informal recruitment fees and debt arrangements contribute to bonded labor and dependency among migrant workers. A qualitative approach was used to conduct in-depth interviews with 30 South Asian migrants employed in the construction sector. This article highlights how pre-migration debt—which is often accrued through informal loans and exploitative recruitment fees—has been underexplored in migration studies. Drawing on interviews with 30 South Asian laborers, this study identifies five interconnected themes: pre-migration debt bondage, exploitative lending practices, lack of legal recourse, emotional manipulation, and a cycle of dependency. While UAE labor policies have improved, the real vulnerabilities lie in the informal recruitment systems and weak oversight in migrant workers’ countries of origin. Consequently, five themes were generated from the analysis: pre-migration debt bondage, exploitative lending practices, no legal recourse, emotional manipulation, and cycles of dependency. This study contributes to our existing knowledge by revealing the experiences of migrant construction workers from South Asia in the UAE. While the UAE has established one of the region’s most progressive legal frameworks to protect migrant workers and set clear labor standards, many exploitative practices occur outside its jurisdiction, particularly in the workers’ countries of origin. This study underscores that the root of the problem lies in weak enforcement and informal recruitment networks in sending countries, not in UAE policy itself. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated international action to ensure that migrant protection begins well before arrival. Full article

As sustainability becomes a strategic priority across global financial services, its implementation in emerging insurance markets remains insufficiently understood. This study explores the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles within Saudi Arabia’s insurance sector, combining content analysis of corporate disclosures with qualitative insights from industry stakeholders. The research investigates how insurers embed ESG principles into their operations, the development of sustainable insurance products, and their perceived financial and regulatory implications. The findings reveal gradual progress in ESG integration, primarily driven by governance reforms aligned with national development agendas, while social and environmental dimensions remain comparatively underdeveloped. Stakeholders identify regulatory ambiguity, data limitations, and technical capacity as persistent barriers, but also point to increasing investor and consumer interest in sustainability-aligned offerings. This study offers policy and managerial recommendations to advance ESG principle adoption, emphasizing standardized disclosures, capacity-building, and product innovation. It contributes to the limited empirical literature on ESG principles in Middle Eastern insurance markets and highlights the sector’s potential role in promoting inclusive and sustainable finance. Full article

Generative AI (genAI) has emerged as a powerful tool for synthesizing diverse and complex image data, offering new possibilities for scientific imaging applications. This review presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of leading generative architectures, ranging from Variational Autoencoders (VAEs) to Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) on through to Diffusion Models, in the context of scientific image synthesis. We examine each model’s foundational principles, recent architectural advancements, and practical trade-offs. Our evaluation, conducted on domain-specific datasets including microCT scans of rocks and composite fibers, as well as high-resolution images of plant roots, integrates both quantitative metrics (SSIM, LPIPS, FID, CLIPScore) and expert-driven qualitative assessments. Results show that GANs, particularly StyleGAN, produce images with high perceptual quality and structural coherence. Diffusion-based models for inpainting and image variation, such as DALL-E 2, delivered high realism and semantic alignment but generally struggled in balancing visual fidelity with scientific accuracy. Importantly, our findings reveal limitations of standard quantitative metrics in capturing scientific relevance, underscoring the need for domain-expert validation. We conclude by discussing key challenges such as model interpretability, computational cost, and verification protocols, and discuss future directions where generative AI can drive innovation in data augmentation, simulation, and hypothesis generation in scientific research. Full article

Background/Objectives: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic relapsing and remitting inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has emerged as an FDA-approved treatment for recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections (CDIs), with promising potential in patients with IBD. This manuscript aimed to provide a comprehensive and updated review of the available literature on fecal microbiota transplantation, its clinical use in IBD in general, as well as in patients with IBD and CDI. Methods: An extensive literature search was performed from October 2024 to March 2025. All publications available within PubMed, Medline, Embase, Google Scholar, and Cochrane databases were reviewed. All original articles, case reports, review articles, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses were included. Qualitative and quantitative data were both extracted. Discussion: Intestinal microbiota is an integral part of the human body, and dysbiosis (an imbalance in the gut’s microbial community) has been linked with several pathologies. Dysbiosis in IBD is marked by reduced beneficial bacteria and increased pro-inflammatory pathogens, contributing to mucosal damage and immune dysregulation. FMT has emerged as a solution to dysbiosis, with the first case recorded in 1917. FMT has been successful in treating patients with CDI. The diagnostic value of the gut microbiome is currently being explored as a possible therapeutic approach to IBD. Several studies have assessed FMT in patients with IBD and CDI with promising results in both ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD) but varying efficacy based on administration routes, donor selection, and processing methods. In the context of recurrent CDI in patients with IBD, FMT demonstrates a high cure rate and potential benefit in concurrently improving IBD activity. However, risks such as IBD flare-ups post-FMT remain a concern. Conclusions: FMT holds promising potential in the management of CDI in patients with IBD. By restoring microbial diversity and correcting dysbiosis, FMT offers a novel, microbiota-targeted alternative to conventional therapies. While data support its efficacy in improving disease remission, variability in outcomes underscores the need for standardized protocols and additional large-scale, controlled studies. Continued research efforts into donor selection, treatment regimens, and long-term safety will be critical to optimizing FMT’s role in IBD and CDI care as well as improving patient outcomes. Full article

The increasing integration of 3D technologies and machine learning is fundamentally reshaping mineral sciences and cultural heritage, establishing the foundation for an emerging “Mineralogy 4.0” framework. However, public engagement with digital 3D collections is often limited by complex or costly interfaces, such as VR/AR systems and traditional touchscreen kiosks, creating a clear need for more intuitive, accessible, and more engaging and inclusive solutions. This paper presents PETRA, an open-source, gesture-controlled system for exploring 3D rocks and minerals. Developed in the TouchDesigner environment, PETRA utilizes a standard webcam and the MediaPipe framework to translate natural hand movements into real-time manipulation of digital specimens, requiring no specialized hardware. The system provides a customizable, node-based framework for creating touchless, interactive exhibits. Successfully evaluated during a “Long Night of Museums” public event with 550 visitors, direct qualitative observations confirmed high user engagement, rapid instruction-free learnability across diverse age groups, and robust system stability in a continuous-use setting. As a practical case study, PETRA demonstrates that low-cost, webcam-based gesture control is a viable solution for creating accessible and immersive learning experiences. This work offers a significant contribution to the fields of digital mineralogy, human–machine interaction, and cultural heritage by providing a hygienic, scalable, and socially engaging method for interacting with geological collections. This research confirms that as digital archives grow, the development of human-centered interfaces is paramount in unlocking their full scientific and educational potential. Full article

The construction sector significantly contributes to global environmental degradation through intensive resource extraction, high energy consumption, and substantial waste generation. Addressing this unsustainable trajectory requires integrated approaches that simultaneously improve operational efficiency and material circularity. Lean Construction (LC) and Circular Economy (CE) offer complementary frameworks for enhancing process performance and reducing environmental impacts. However, their combined implementation remains underdeveloped and fragmented. This study conducts a systematic literature review (SLR) of 18 peer-reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2025, selected using PRISMA 2020 guidelines and sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases. A mixed-method approach combines bibliometric mapping and qualitative content analysis to investigate how LC and CE are jointly operationalized in construction contexts. The findings reveal that LC improves cost, time, and workflow reliability, while CE enables reuse, modularity, and lifecycle extension. Integration is further supported by digital tools—such as Building Information Modelling (BIM), Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA), and digital twins—which enhance traceability and flow optimization. Nonetheless, persistent barriers—including supply chain fragmentation, lack of standards, and regulatory gaps—continue to constrain widespread adoption. This review identifies six strategic enablers for LC-CE integration: crossdisciplinary competencies, collaborative governance, interoperable digital systems, standardized indicators, incentive-based regulation, and pilot demonstrator projects. By consolidating fragmented evidence, the study provides a structured research agenda and practical insights to guide the transition toward more circular, efficient, and sustainable construction practices. Full article

The implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) in public design processes enhances efficiency, transparency, and sustainability. However, public agencies often encounter significant barriers, particularly regarding organisational and managerial readiness. This study develops a BIM implementation framework tailored to the specific needs of an Italian public agency. The research adopts a qualitative approach, combining 15 semi-structured interviews with process mapping Using (Business Process Modeling Notation) BPMN. The current as-is workflows were analysed and validated by internal stakeholders. Based on this analysis, strategic objectives were defined, relevant (Building Information Modelling) BIM uses were selected, and revised to-be processes were proposed, integrating new roles and responsibilities according to the standards. The framework addresses both technical and organisational dimensions of BIM adoption, highlighting the need for training, coordination, and stakeholder engagement. The main outcomes include a structured process model, a priority-based selection of BIM uses, and a role matrix supporting organisational transformation. The added value for researchers lies in the replicable methodology that combines empirical process mapping with implementation planning. For practitioners, especially consultants in sustainable design, the study offers a practical roadmap for aligning BIM adoption with project goals, regulatory compliance, and environmental performance targets in complex public sector contexts. Full article

Background: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe gastrointestinal disease and a major cause of morbidity and mortality among preterm infants. Traditional diagnostic methods such as abdominal radiography have limited sensitivity in early disease stages, prompting interest in bowel ultrasound (BUS) as a complementary imaging modality. Objective: This scoping review aims to synthesize existing literature on the role of ultra sound in the early detection, diagnosis, and management of NEC, with emphasis on its diagnostic performance, integration into clinical care, and technological innovations. Methods: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2000 and December 2025. Inclusion criteria encompassed original research, reviews, and clinical studies evaluating the use of bowel, intestinal, or Doppler ultrasound in neonates with suspected or confirmed NEC. Data were extracted, categorized by study design, population characteristics, ultrasound features, and diagnostic outcomes, and qualitatively synthesized. Results: A total of 101 studies were included. BUS demonstrated superior sensitivity over radiography in detecting early features of NEC, including bowel wall thickening, portal venous gas, and altered peristalsis. Doppler ultrasound, both antenatal and postnatal, was effective in identifying perfusion deficits predictive of NEC onset. Neonatologist-performed ultrasound (NEOBUS) showed high interobserver agreement when standardized protocols were used. Emerging tools such as ultra-high-frequency ultrasound (UHFUS) and artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced analysis hold potential to improve diagnostic precision. Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) appears feasible in resource-limited settings, though implementation barriers remain. Conclusions: Bowel ultrasound is a valuable adjunct to conventional imaging in NEC diagnosis. Standardized protocols, validation of advanced technologies, and out come-based studies are essential to guide its broader clinical adoption. Full article

Background: Conventional practices for the cultivation of “Cipollotto Nocerino” spring onion are mainly based on growers’ experience, and up to 250 kg/ha for N is commonly furnished among growing cycles. Facing the issue of reduced availability of natural resources for crop production (for example mineral resources), we investigated the optimization of the productivity. Methods: In our research, we tested the use of depletion nutrient supply strategy (CAL-FERT^®) to enhance fertilization in accordance with the principle of sustainable agriculture included in the Farm to Fork strategy. In our study, besides the common initial fertilization, three different strategies for cover fertilizations have been elaborated with the support of CAL-FERT^® software. The treatments were as follows: (i) commercial standard fertilization as control (named CF); (ii) fertilization equivalent to 50% of the N applied in the control (named F-50); (iii) fertilization corresponding to 25% of the N applied in the control (named F-25); and (iv) strongly reduced fertilization compared to the control (named F-0). The parameters investigated included the following: plant height, yield, SPAD index, nitrogen use efficiency, dry matter, soluble solid content, and pyruvate contents in bulbs and leaves. Nitrogen content was also analyzed for both hypogeous and epigeous apparatuses. Results: Among the most interesting vegetative results, plant height and SPAD readings were reduced only by the extreme treatment F-0 compared with the other treatments at 104 days after planting. Regarding qualitative and productive parameters, the treatments F-50 and F-25 showed the highest yield without prejudging Soluble Solid Content and reducing pungency. Conclusion: In nutritional experiments, onion could be considered as a crop model to investigate quality in vegetables due to its consumption as fresh product and for its particular response, in terms of yield and quality, to fertilization. The use of simulation software can support the identification of strategies to reduce the nutrient supply without any detrimental effect on yield and other vegetative and qualitative parameters in onion crops. Full article

Educational facilities are the physical environment that supports the academic process for a better education. The quality of offices as workspaces is crucial in creating a supportive environment to enhance the staff and students’ experience. This paper aims to study the concept of space personalization and its impact on faculty members’ productivity, performance, and satisfaction in universities’ educational facilities. To achieve this aim, the research applied the qualitative research method of semi-structured interviews to gather comprehensive data about user experience. Approaching 39 faculty members within Al Yamamah University across three departments within the College of Engineering (Architecture, Industrial, and Computer). Data were analyzed using thematic analysis for qualitative insights, focusing on environmental aspects (such as: natural lighting, ventilation, noise control, etc.), psychological factors (such as: privacy, aesthetic appeal, etc.), and architectural settings (such as: area, space layout, materials, etc.). The research proposes a methodological framework for design considerations for office spaces in universities, fostering more flexible and personalized designs for enhancing sense of ownership and well-being. Findings indicate that personalized office spaces significantly enhance faculty satisfaction and productivity. Qualitative data highlighted that a lack of privacy in standardized offices adds stress and an overwhelming environment. These findings suggest that universities should consider flexible office designs to optimize academic work environments. Full article