Search Results (966)

This research examines the professional aspirations of teenage girls attending secondary school in a Brazilian state and how they perceive potential careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). STEM remains a masculinised field, not only due to the predominance of men but also because of enduring cultural representations that associate it with exceptional academic performance and highly technical competencies. In response, various educational intervention initiatives have sought to challenge these assumptions and promote the inclusion of girls and women in STEM. This article discusses an intervention carried out in four public schools as part of a project led by the Centre for Informatics at the Federal University of Paraíba. The project collected quantitative and qualitative data on subject preferences, professional expectations and perceptions of STEM among teenage girls. A mixed-methods exploratory approach was adopted to analyse the data and therefore to contribute to understand better the specific challenges of implementing such interventions in socioeconomically disadvantaged contexts, which remain underrepresented within the Women in STEM scholarship. The findings illustrate how social and financial constraints shape these young women’s career aspirations, intensifying both the desire for economic stability and the pursuit of personal fulfilment. At the same time, many perceive the future as uncertain and regard STEM as difficult to access, frequently associated with anxiety surrounding core science subjects. This article contributes to ongoing debates on gender and STEM education, offering insights into the Brazilian context and outlining considerations for the development and refinement of future school-based interventions. Full article

Exclusive residential developments have drawn growing attention in South African cities, where urbanisation and socioeconomic disparities continue to reshape the built environment. This study examines the underlying drivers of their proliferation and presents a taxonomy of the key forces influencing their growth. The aim is to present results of a study that sought to examine the driving forces behind the growth of exclusive residential developments. Drawing from a literature review and a quantitative inquiry approach, primary data was also collected from 109 built environment professionals. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, particularly exploratory factor analysis (EFA), were employed to enhance the analysis. The descriptive assessment, utilising the mean score (MS) ranking technique, revealed that one of the primary factors influencing the development of exclusive residential communities was the perception among prospective residents that these environments offer enhanced safety and security. Additionally, there is a good chance that these developments may increase in value. Furthermore, the EFA revealed that the underlying grouped factors for exclusive development were ‘free market capitalism’; ‘safety and security’; ‘local demand’; ‘public–private partnership (PPP)’; ‘affordability’; and ‘profit seeking’. These findings suggest that if housing costs rise, the average citizen may not be able to afford them due to the emphasis on maximising profits over affordability. Safety and security precautions can create a sense of exclusivity and seclusion in these communities, possibly cutting them off from the larger local community and affecting local demand for goods and services outside the community’s borders. Full article

Tourism has emerged as a critical economic pillar for many island communities worldwide, transforming their socio-economic structure and land use strategies. However, intensifying typhoons and other extreme climate events pose escalating risks to these communities, demanding adaptive transformations in disaster knowledge systems and risk management strategies. Local disaster knowledge (LDK), as a place-based knowledge system, plays an essential role in shaping adaptive responses and enhancing resilience within these communities. This study investigates the structure and dynamic adaptation paths of local disaster knowledge amid the shift toward tourism-based communities. Using a qualitative approach, this study conducted an in-depth case study on Shengsi Island, China. The findings reveal that LDK exhibits a three-layered structure: deep-intermediate-surface layers. Beliefs constitute the deep core, while social cohesion, risk knowledge and perception form the middle mediating layer. The surface practical layer encompasses early warning systems, anticipatory measures, structural measures, and livelihood adaptation strategies. The interaction among the three layers constitutes the endogenous dynamics driving knowledge adaptation, while macro-level disaster governance and tourism development act as exogenous drivers. Together, these mechanisms facilitate two adaptive pathways: policy-guided structural transformation and tourism-led practical adaptation. This study advances theoretical understanding of LDK by exploring its dynamics in transforming communities, with a framework that can be extrapolated to other disaster risk contexts. It also provides policy-relevant insights for developing disaster resilience and sustainable land use policies in island communities experiencing tourism transformation. Full article

Background: Exposure to heat is a growing health concern in the context of climate change. Older adults (people aged 600 years or older) are particularly vulnerable due to age-related physiological changes that compromise thermoregulation. Objective: To systematically review the evidence on thermoregulatory alterations in older adults exposed to heat and their association with adverse clinical outcomes. Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. Twenty-four original studies met the inclusion criteria, including experimental studies in controlled environments and epidemiological studies on heat-related outcomes. Data on study characteristics, thermophysiological responses, clinical outcomes, and methodological quality (assessed with JBI tools) were extracted and synthesized. Results: Experimental studies showed that older adults exhibit reduced sweating and cutaneous vasodilation, attenuated cardiovascular and autonomic adjustments, impaired hydration status, and altered thermal perception. These limitations resulted in greater heat storage, faster increases in core temperature, and a higher risk of dehydration and fatigue compared with younger adults. Epidemiological evidence confirmed a significant association between high ambient temperatures and increased hospitalizations and mortality among older populations, particularly at advanced ages, in women, and in those with comorbidities or socioeconomic vulnerability. Conclusions: Heat exposure and climatic conditions—particularly high ambient temperatures, humidity, and poor air quality—reduce thermoregulatory efficiency and increase risks of dehydration, cardiovascular strain, and mortality in older adults. Integrated public health actions addressing both environmental and physiological factors are essential for preventing heat-related illness among older adults. Full article

Soybean–corn intercropping in the hilly–mountainous regions of Southwest China poses unique challenges to mechanized harvesting because of complex topography and agronomic constraints. Addressing the soybean-harvesting bottleneck in these fields requires advanced sensing and perception rather than purely mechanical redesigns. Prior reviews emphasized flat-terrain machinery or single-crop systems, leaving a gap in sensor-centric solutions for intercropping on steep, irregular plots. This review analyzes how sensors enable the next generation of intelligent harvesters by linking field constraints to perception and control. We frame the core failures of conventional machines—instability, inconsistent cutting, and low efficiency—as perception problems driven by low pod height, severe slope effects, and header–row mismatches. From this perspective, we highlight five fronts: (1) terrain-profiling sensors integrated with adaptive headers; (2) IMUs and inclination sensors for chassis stability and traction on slopes; (3) multi-sensor fusion of LiDAR and machine vision with AI for crop identification, navigation, and obstacle avoidance; (4) vision and spectral sensing for selective harvesting and impurity pre-sorting; and (5) acoustic/vibration sensing for low-damage, high-efficiency threshing and cleaning. We conclude that compact, intelligent machinery powered by sensing, data fusion, and real-time control is essential, while acknowledging technological and socio-economic barriers to deployment. This review outlines a sensor-driven roadmap for sustainable, efficient soybean harvesting in challenging terrains. Full article

This paper assesses the correlates of perceived well-being among young women aged 18 to 30 in five Balkan cities: Athens, Greece; Plovdiv, Bulgaria; Bucharest, Romania; Nis, Serbia; and Shtip, North Macedonia, by integrating urban, travel behavioural, and socio-economic features. A cross-sectional survey was employed using standard questionnaires including the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS), the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), and the adapted ALPHA environmental questionnaire. To answer research questions, linear regression models were developed to analyse predictors of well-being at both regional and national levels. Results show that neighbourhood and mobility features play a significant role in shaping mental well-being. Access to walkable sidewalks, green spaces, mixed land-use structure, and attractive local facilities (e.g., shops, recreational centres in the neighbourhood) were consistently associated with higher levels of well-being. Conversely, perceived insecurity, especially at night or regarding bicycle theft, significantly reduced well-being. Physical activity levels, particularly days of walking and vigorous activity, showed strong positive associations, underscoring the role of active lifestyles in promoting mental health. Socio-economic variables, including financial status, relationship status, and work status, were also found to be linked to perceived well-being. Cycling-related variables may affect Greek well-being up to 16.5 times. Perception of crime during the night may negatively affect both Bulgarian and Serbian well-being (up to 10 times), while Romanian well-being is mostly affected by the existence of shopping facilities. Finally, the most impactful factors for well-being in North Macedonia refer to cycling safety and scooter accessibility. Full article

Background/Objectives: Patient satisfaction is increasingly recognized as a key indicator of the effectiveness of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. While some studies suggest disparities in satisfaction across treatment settings, there remains limited research examining these differences, particularly among vulnerable populations. This study aimed to assess patient perceptions of satisfaction with opioid use treatment services and explore how demographic and socioeconomic factors influence these experiences. Methods: Conducted between 1 February and 31 March 2025, the study took place at a longstanding Opioid Treatment Program in Philadelphia. A total of 217 participants receiving treatment were recruited through convenience sampling during routine clinic visits. Data collection involved an electronically administered survey using the validated Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8, with both quantitative and qualitative components. Quantitative data were analyzed using SAS 9.4, while qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis in Excel. Results: Findings revealed an average satisfaction score of 27.16, with employment status emerging as a significant predictor; employed individuals reported lower satisfaction (β = −1.118, p = 0.040), and race showed a marginal association. Qualitative analysis highlighted themes such as supportive staff, financial struggles, and personal growth. Conclusion: The results emphasize the need for equitable, culturally responsive treatment approaches that account for socioeconomic disparities in patient experience and care quality. Full article

Rural tourism is a significant driver of socio-economic development in rural areas. However, current offerings are often characterized by monotonous experiences, homogenized products, and a lack of cultural depth, failing to meet tourists’ growing demand for immersive engagement. While some scholars have adopted a spatial perception perspective, a visitor-centered approach remains scarce, with limited focus on methods for analyzing cultural perception. This study takes Dangjia Village, a renowned cultural tourism destination in Hancheng, China, as a case study. By scraping online reviews from travel and social platforms, we employ LDA topic modeling, textual semantic analysis, and IPA to investigate the characteristics and preferences of tourists’ cultural perception. The findings reveal that: (1) Tourists’ cultural perception of Dangjia Village includes three dimensions: History and Culture, Architecture and Culture, and Local Products and Culture. (2) Positive sentiments outweigh negative ones in tourist evaluations. (3) The History and Culture dimension received the highest levels of both attention and satisfaction. Architecture and Culture attracted the least attention but relatively high satisfaction, while Local Products and Culture garnered considerable attention yet the lowest satisfaction. Originating from a visitor perception perspective, this study explores cultural perception characteristics, providing insights for the high-quality utilization and optimization of cultural tourism resources in such villages. Full article

Research has shown that language ability can vary enormously depending on variables such as musical ability, musical training, and second and/or foreign language experience. In this study, we simulated initial foreign language learning conditions in which learners must recognize and match unfamiliar language input. We recruited 500 participants with different levels of foreign language experience, different levels of musical training and different socio-economic backgrounds. Their auditory phonological pattern recognition ability, short-term memory (STM) capacity, musical ability, musical self-estimation, educational status, and socio-economic status (SES) were assessed. Both overall and group-specific analyses were conducted to investigate the impact of these variables. For the group-specific analysis, participants were assigned to four groups based on the presence or absence of musical training and extensive foreign language experience. For the overall analysis, regression models were applied to the entire sample to examine the combined effects of all variables. Group-specific analyses revealed that both musical training and extensive foreign language experience contributed to individual differences in the ability to recognize phonological patterns in unintelligible auditory stimuli. A key finding was that musical training appeared to have a stronger influence on auditory phonological pattern recognition than extensive foreign language experience, particularly in the early stages of language learning. This suggests that musical training may exert a greater impact on initial phonetic acquisition processes than extensive foreign language proficiency, especially when the language stimuli are relatively poor in linguistic content. The overall analysis revealed that musical variables, short-term memory capacity, socioeconomic status, and educational status all contributed to individual differences in auditory phonological pattern recognition. Notably, the most significant finding of the overall analysis was the association between SES and auditory phonological pattern recognition in unfamiliar speech—a result that challenges the notion of aptitude measures as stable and environment-independent and highlights the potential influence of environmental factors on this capacity. Full article

Remote working is increasingly being recognized as a practice that can advance organizational sustainability across environmental, economic and social dimensions. However, little is known about how employees perceive its benefits within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and about the role of leadership in shaping these perceptions. This study aimed to identify distinct profiles of perceived remote working benefits and to examine how socio-demographic characteristics and leader–member exchange (LMX) predict profile membership. Data were collected through an online survey administered to 377 employees of a medium-sized Italian IT company. Measures included perceived benefits of remote working and supportive leadership, and analyses were conducted using latent class analysis (LCA) and multinomial logistic regression. Results revealed four profiles: Enthusiastic Supporters (37%), Cautious Adopters (25%), Remote Work Skeptics (22%), and Core Pragmatists (17%). Younger employees were more likely to belong to the Enthusiastic Supporters category, while supportive leadership increased the probability of being Cautious Adopters rather than Skeptics. These findings stress the importance of considering diverse employee experiences when implementing remote work policies and highlight the role of leadership in fostering positive evaluations of remote working. The study provides practical insights for SMEs aiming to align remote working practices with sustainability goals. Full article

This study examines how Windhoek’s urban form, shaped by apartheid-era planning, continues to influence neighbourhood travel behaviour, socio-economic disparity, and residential perceptions. It addresses three key questions: (1) How do socio-economic characteristics, neighbourhood perceptions, and travel patterns differ between compact and sprawled areas? (2) Which socio-economic, perceptual, and spatial factors are associated with the likelihood of neighbourhood-based shopping in compact versus sprawled urban forms? (3) What are the determinants of entertainment and recreational travel behaviour within neighbourhoods across the two urban forms? Using survey data from 1000 residents, the analysis employs chi-square tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, binary logistic regression, and multivariate regression models. Findings reveal that compact areas, characterised by higher incomes, stronger place attachment, and greater infrastructural diversity, support more frequent neighbourhood travel. By contrast, sprawled peripheries, despite higher population densities, remain marked by socio-economic marginalisation, limited amenity access, and negative perceptions that constrain neighbourhood mobility. Across both forms, long-term residence and belonging strongly predict neighbourhood travel, while concerns over traffic safety and crime consistently suppress participation. The results show that spatial proximity alone does not ensure accessibility; emotional, perceptual, and structural barriers mediate neighbourhood mobility. The study highlights the need for integrated planning that addresses both physical infrastructure and lived experience to advance equitable and sustainable mobility in post-colonial contexts. Full article

This study examines the statistical and spatial alignment between urban place perceptions and the census-based evidence of socio-spatial segregation. We process a large dataset of geotagged images from Mapillary and KartaView with ZenSVI to score six place perception dimensions (safety, liveliness, wealth, beauty, boredom, depression) for the metropolitan area of Thessaloniki, Greece. The socio-economic structure is derived from census indicators and property values using Location Quotients and principal component analysis. We assess alignment through Pearson’s correlation (r) to capture statistical association, and bivariate Moran’s I to test spatial correspondence while accounting for spatial dependence. Results reveal a robust northwest–southeast divide: southeastern and central districts are perceived as safer, livelier, wealthier, and more beautiful, while northwestern and industrial zones score higher on boredom and depression. The historic city center emerges as vibrant and affluent, acting as a key interface between social groups, especially students, the elderly, and migrants. Perceptual dimensions vary in spatial form: safety, beauty, and depression cluster locally, whereas wealth and vibrancy extend over broader sectors. The study demonstrates the combined use of perceptual and socio-economic data for urban analysis and provides a replicable framework for monitoring inequalities and guiding participatory and inclusive planning. Full article

Inequalities in enrollment in STEM persist for those entering higher education as first-generation college students, underserved racial and ethnic groups, female and nonbinary individuals, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. The current study aims to better understand the relationship students have with graduate school success factors by redistributing the Graduate Student Success Survey+ (GSSS+) at an R2 institution in the southeastern United States. Exploratory factor analysis was used to test the survey’s validity, with 242 participants. A 7-factor, 40-item model was developed, comprising the following subscales: mentor support, peer support, imposter phenomenon, financial support, microaggressions (related to race and gender), access and opportunity (for research, writing, and presentations), and resilience. Item analysis identified perceived barriers (e.g., microaggressions, imposter phenomenon, and financial stress) for underserved students (i.e., females, underserved racial and ethnic groups, and part-time students). Regression analysis on resilience revealed a positive relationship with mentor support, peer support, and financial support. A negative relationship with resilience was associated with a greater perception of imposter phenomenon. Findings from this study underscore the need for additional support from mentors and other university entities to foster a stronger sense of resilience in students, along with increased opportunities for participation in research, academic writing, and publication. Full article

The concept of engaging the community in the results of research or returning individual results to the respective participants seems more of an afterthought than an integral part of research processes. The study aims to assess the impact of research results feedback among study participants from a rural black community of low socio-economic status. The study was qualitative. The interview data was analyzed using a deductive content analysis method to develop themes. The present study included about 31 individuals, of which 79% were women and 29% were men. The study used deductive content analysis to identify themes. These themes included health and lifestyle awareness, perceived benefits of research participation, community perception of health research, economic and social motivations, and challenges and concerns. The present study shed light on the importance of returning individual results for participants in health research. Providing feedback was found to improve participants’ health awareness, lifestyle behavior and contribute to early disease detection, especially for conditions that are not routinely tested in clinics. The themes that were generated showed that participants altered their lives and health-seeking behavior because of the information they received from participating in research, a situation that would not have happened if they did not have the results back. The findings of the present study indicate that it is important to return feedback results post conducting a research study. Returning results not only improves the livelihood of participants at the community level but also has the potential to foster strong researcher–community partnerships to enhance research participation and health outcomes, especially in disadvantaged populations. Full article

This study investigates the factors influencing the perceived credibility of advertising content on e-commerce platforms, drawing on behavioral economics and communication theories. Through a quasi-experimental design involving 156 participants, we analyzed how message features, product importance, and socio-demographic variables affect user perceptions. The results reveal that users assign higher credibility to simple, essential content and that gender plays a significant role, with women perceiving paramedical and technical content as more credible. Age, however, showed no significant influence. The discussion highlights the psychological mechanisms behind these behaviors, such as risk and ambiguity aversion, and proposes implications for digital marketing strategies and future research. Full article