Search Results (310)

As alternative remote communication interfaces become increasingly common, ensuring that they seamlessly integrate into daily life has become a pressing design challenge. In this context, what should a huggable communication device look like—should it have arms or a face, or resemble a conventional pillow? This study investigates users’ preferences and personalities regarding the appearance of such interfaces for remote emotional interaction. As a case study, we present HugBits, a round, cushion-like device that transmits hugs through visual and tactile feedback. Drawing on the prior literature and a participatory design workshop, we developed seven shape variations and evaluated them through an online survey with 79 Polish participants. The results reveal a consistent preference for less anthropomorphic designs, with users valuing comfort, simplicity, and intuitive affordances such as areas to rest the head or wrap the arms around. Although personality traits did not significantly predict preferences, the findings highlight broader design criteria: huggable communication interfaces, intended to remain visible and available in shared spaces, must balance emotional expressiveness with social acceptability. These insights provide guidelines for designing emotionally engaging, user-centered mediated touch technologies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied in breast imaging, with potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce workload in mammographic breast cancer screening. However, real-world integration of AI into national screening programs remains limited, and little is known about radiologists’ perspectives in Asian settings. This study aimed to explore radiologists’ perceptions of AI adoption in Singapore’s breast screening program, focusing on perceived benefits, barriers, and requirements for safe integration. Methods: We conducted a mixed methods study involving a cross-sectional survey of 17 radiologists with prior experience using AI-assisted mammography, followed by semi-structured interviews with 10 radiologists across all three public healthcare clusters. The survey measured confidence in AI, attitudes toward its diagnostic role, and integration preferences. Interviews were analyzed thematically, guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework. Results: Among survey respondents, 64.7% recommended AI as a companion reader, though only 29.4% rated its performance as comparable to humans. Confidence was highest when AI was validated on local datasets (mean 9.3/10). Interviews highlighted AI’s strengths in routine, fatigue-prone tasks, but skepticism for complex cases. Concerns included false positives, workflow inefficiencies, medico-legal accountability, and long-term costs. Radiologists emphasized the importance of national guidelines, local validation, and clear role definition to build trust. Conclusions: Radiologists support AI as an adjunct to, but not a replacement for, human readers in breast cancer screening. Adoption will require robust regulatory frameworks, seamless workflow integration, transparent validation on local data, and structured user training to ensure safe and effective implementation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) frequently experience poor compliance with oral medication due to bitterness, unpleasant taste, and unsuitable dosage forms such as large tablets or capsules. Risperidone, a widely prescribed antipsychotic for managing ASD symptoms, is particularly challenging in this regard. The present study aimed to develop a novel sucrose-based microfiber drug delivery system to improve the palatability, acceptance, and bioavailability of risperidone in pediatric patients with ASD. Methods: Risperidone was incorporated into sucrose microfibers using centrifugal spinning technology. Fiber morphology was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Drug loading (DL), encapsulation efficiency (EE%), and disintegration time were measured. In vitro drug release and cytotoxicity assays were performed using human foreskin fibroblast cells (HFF-1). An in vivo palatability and preference study was conducted in male BALB/c mice to evaluate the acceptability of the formulation compared with a commercial risperidone oral solution. Results: SEM analysis revealed smooth, bead-free, non-porous fibers with uniform morphology and size distribution. The formulation showed a rapid disintegration time of ~3 s, DL of 30 ± 5 µg/mg, and EE% of 60 ± 10%. Approximately 50% of risperidone was released within 15 min. Cytotoxicity testing confirmed that concentrations ≤ 125 µg/mL maintained high cell metabolic activity, indicating biocompatibility. In vivo, the microfiber solution demonstrated a strong preference (93%) compared with the commercial oral solution (30%). Conclusions: Risperidone-loaded sucrose microfibers represent a promising fast-dissolving oral delivery system for children with ASD. This child-friendly formulation improves palatability and compliance while maintaining safety and drug release performance. Full article

This study explores the impact of government subsidy on blockchain traceability leadership (manufacturer vs. retailer) in a technology-supported supply chain including a manufacturer, a retailer, and a technical service firm. Methodology: We built Stackelberg game models for different scenarios (non-blockchain, manufacturer/retailer-led blockchain, and subsidized blockchain) to derive equilibria. Results: First, blockchain adoption is not always optimal unless consumers exhibit low acceptance of non-blockchain products and construction costs are low. Second, a party (manufacturer/retailer) tends to lead blockchain construction if the technical service firm shares more of its costs than the other party. Finally, government subsidies benefit the manufacturer and the retailer, but the technical service firm does not always benefit from subsidies. With suitable rates and lower costs, the manufacturer or the retailer prefers to lead the construction, potentially creating a win–win scenario in the supply chain. Novelty: We quantified leadership-switching conditions via the technical service firm’s cost sharing and took its decision-making licensing fees into account, addressing gaps in multi-stakeholder blockchain adoption research. Full article

This study investigated the physicochemical characteristics, functional and technological properties, and consumer acceptability of multi-millet extruded snacks using a fuzzy logic approach, with particular emphasis on key sensory parameters: color, flavor, taste, and texture. Four formulations were developed using varying proportions of proso, kodo, and foxtail millets: S1 (50% proso millet), S2 (50% kodo millet), S3 (50% foxtail millet), and S4 (33% each). Physicochemical analysis indicated minimal nutrient (fiber, ash, and protein) loss during extrusion, while technological properties such as water absorption index (WAI: 5.71 g/g), water solubility index (WSI: 5.66–6.61%), and bulk density (0.13 to 0.16 g/cm³) yielded favorable results, contributing to improved texture and taste. The observed changes in starch structure positively influenced the organoleptic qualities of the snacks. Sensory evaluation, conducted by a 20-member panel, revealed that S3 (50% foxtail millet) received the highest acceptability scores, followed by S4, S2, and S1, and was rated as ‘very good.’ Among the sensory attributes, taste emerged as the most critical factor influencing consumer preference, followed by texture, flavor, and color. This study emphasizes the importance of integrating sensory analysis with fuzzy logic modeling to systematically optimize the formulation and processing conditions. This strategy enhances product quality by aligning technological functionality with sensory appeal, offering a robust framework for the development of consumer-preferred, health-oriented snacks and reducing the risk of market failure. Full article

The rapid digital transformation of higher education creates opportunities and challenges, particularly in professional programmes where students must balance academic learning with preparation for operational duties, such as in medicine, engineering, and defence. While digital technologies are widely used in higher education, their sustainable integration into professional contexts, especially security and defence education, remains underexplored. This study investigates the determinants of perceived e-learning usefulness among undergraduates (cadets) at the Lithuanian Military Academy, applying an adapted technology acceptance model framework. A structured questionnaire was used to measure constructs related to distance learning effectiveness, classroom innovation, security, sustainability of digital systems, and individual learning preferences, with hypotheses tested through mediation and moderated mediation models. The results indicate that the effectiveness of distance learning is the strongest factor influencing intention to use it, supported by the roles of classroom innovation and system security. Perceived usefulness further emerges as both a direct predictor of adoption and a conditional factor shaping the impact of pedagogical and infrastructural design on acceptance. These findings extend traditional technology acceptance frameworks and provide new insights into how sustainable digital teaching can be fostered in higher professional education, where academic quality and operational readiness must be aligned. Full article

Background/Objectives: This study evaluates students’ awareness and perceptions of interdisciplinary education. It focuses specifically on digital dentistry among students in the Department of Dental Technology. The findings aim to support the development of interdisciplinary courses and programs to enhance students’ skills in response to the growing digitalization of dental healthcare. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a 23-item online questionnaire administered to a total of 203 students to collect data on general characteristics, perceptions of interdisciplinary education, the perceived necessity of such education, and the demand for interdisciplinary training, including topics related to CAD/CAM and 3D printing technologies. A t-test was performed to analyze grade-level differences in perceptions. Correlation analysis was conducted between perceptions and digital dental laboratory technology skills. Results: Despite the relatively low level of awareness regarding interdisciplinary education, students expressed a strong perceived need for it. A total of 76.6% of respondents preferred to collaborate with the Department of Dental Hygiene. No clear link exists between students’ perceptions of interdisciplinary education and their digital dental competencies. Practical training is more important than awareness. A significant difference in competencies was seen between lower- and higher-year students, indicating that advanced programs for higher-year students may be effective. Conclusions: Clear guidance on interdisciplinary education can enhance student understanding and acceptance. Interdisciplinary education with the dental hygiene department may increase engagement. Full article

Carob pulp flour (Ceratonia siliqua) is gaining attention as a sustainable ingredient with nutritional and functional potential. This study evaluated the partial replacement of soft wheat flour with 10% carob pulp flour in breadmaking, focusing on the role of different leavening strategies: commercial baker’s yeast (LB), a selected starter culture, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SL31 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae SY17 (LI), and a type I sourdough (LS). Dough rheology, microbial dynamics, bread quality, acceptability, and shelf-life were assessed. Results showed that the inclusion of carob pulp flour enhances the nutritional profile while maintaining satisfactory technological performance. The leavening strategy strongly influenced the final products: breads made with commercial yeast displayed high volume and softness but were less stable during storage; LS breads achieved greater microbial stability but were limited by excessive acidity and reduced sensory acceptance; breads obtained with the selected starter culture offered the most balanced outcome, combining moderate structure with enhanced flavor and consumer preference. Overall, the findings demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating carob pulp flour into bakery products and highlight the potential of tailored starter cultures as a promising compromise between technological performance, sensory quality, and shelf-life. Future work should optimize fermentation approaches to further enhance consumer appeal and support industrial application. Full article

Oleogels are a new trend in food technology aimed at enhancing the nutritional value of products that contain solid fats. Solid fats are rich in nutritionally unfavorable saturated fatty acids (FAs), but oleogels (lipid systems derived from oleogelator and oils) are in unsaturated FAs. The use of oils rich in oxidation-prone unsaturated FAs in pastry products requires the use of an antioxidant, such as green tea extract (GTE). However, new products with altered composition should also be acceptable to consumers. The purpose of this study was to carry out a sensory evaluation of short-dough biscuits obtained with 1% of GTE and high-oleic oleogels and to find what may influence consumers’ anticipated perception. Products with monoacylglycerols (MAG) and candelilla wax (CLX) oleogels and non-gelled high-oleic rapeseed oil (HORO) were found to have equal or better sensory quality compared to products with traditional baker’s (palm) fat (PF). In terms of sensory attributes, products with ethyl cellulose oleogels were the most distinct from the other biscuits. Their sensory qualities were significantly lower, with a more noticeable rancid odor and taste. Products with CLX and MAG oleogels were more preferred than those with PF, as consumers were more likely to purchase them based on sensory impressions. Information about the presence of GTE and HORO in the formulation was shown to affect the perception of the product. Similarly, the information about the low saturated fat content encouraged consumers to purchase such products. Based on this, it can be concluded that displaying this type of information can help educate consumers, support better decision-making, and promote the selection of more nutritious options. Full article

Background/Objectives: A high-performing blood biomarker (BBM) test for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) represents an accurate, accessible, and scalable tool to aid healthcare professionals (HCPs) evaluating patients presenting with signs or symptoms of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. However, implementation of AD blood tests into clinical practice has not been extensively evaluated. The objective of this study was to assess the implementation of the multi-analyte PrecivityAD2™ blood test (C2N Diagnostics, LLC, St. Louis, MO, USA) into the clinical workflow of memory care clinics. Methods: A total of 8 HCPs (neurologists, geriatricians, geriatric psychiatrists) who served as site directors from 8 outpatient sites that evaluated 203 cognitively symptomatic patients were included in this sub-study of the real-world QUIP II Study (NCT06025877). Implementation of this blood test was assessed through surveying these HCPs using published frameworks including the Technology Acceptance Model, net promoter score, and forced choice preference questions. These assessments were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Fisher’s Exact test, and Wilcoxon signed-rank test, respectively. Results: HCPs reported acceptance scores that averaged 9.6 out of 10 (p < 0.0001, effect size 0.840): the test’s contribution to clinical decision-making as well as the ease of understanding test results received the highest ratings. The net promoter score was 75 (p < 0.0001), exceeding the typical benchmark of 30 reported as good levels of satisfaction in healthcare settings. The APS2 results and individual blood analyte results were rated with similar preference around their roles in HCP clinical decision-making. Conclusions: The results indicate early evidence of user acceptance and recognition by HCPs that this AD blood test can personalize the clinical care pathway for evaluating cognitively symptomatic patients. Full article

The building sector plays a key role in the transition toward climate neutrality, with national regulations across the EU requiring the construction of nearly zero-energy buildings (nZEBs). However, while energy performance has been extensively studied, less attention has been given to the problem of ensuring user comfort—both indoors and in the surrounding outdoor areas—under nZEB design constraints. This gap raises two key research objectives: (1) to evaluate whether a well-designed nZEB with extensive glazing maintains acceptable indoor thermal comfort and (2) to assess whether residents experience greater outdoor thermal comfort and satisfaction in small, sun-exposed private gardens or in larger, shaded communal green spaces. To address these objectives, a newly built residential estate near Kraków (Poland) was analyzed. The investigation included simulation-based assessments during the design phase and in situ measurements during building operation, complemented by a user survey on spatial preferences. Indoor comfort was evaluated for rooms with large glazed façades, as well as rooms with standard-sized windows, while outdoor comfort was assessed in both private gardens and a shared green courtyard. Results show that shading the southwest-oriented glazed façade with an overhanging terrace provided slightly lower temperatures in ground-floor rooms compared to rooms with standard unshaded windows. Outdoors, users experienced lower thermal comfort in small, unshaded gardens than in the larger, vegetated communal area (pocket park), which demonstrated greater capacity for temperature moderation and thermal stress reduction. Survey responses further indicate that potential future residents prefer the inclusion of a shared green–blue infrastructure area, even at the expense of building some housing units in semi-detached form, instead of maximizing the number of detached units with unshaded individual gardens. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing both indoor and outdoor comfort in residential nZEB design, showing that technological efficiency must be complemented by user-centered design strategies. This integrated approach can improve the well-being of residents while supporting climate change adaptation in the built environment. Full article

The digital transformation of civic life has created new opportunities for older adults to engage in virtual volunteer activities. However, their participation still remains limited. This study investigates the factors that influence older adults’ interest in virtual volunteering. It integrated theoretical framework combining the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Self-Efficacy, and Digital Divide Theories to examine the drivers of virtual volunteerism interest among this target population. This study presents ordered logistic regression models with data on 814 adult volunteers in multiple imputation procedures. The final reduced model identifies two key predictors: a preference for virtual activities and interest in technology training, respectively, representing TAM and the Digital Divide Theory. While the self-efficacy-related variable showed statistical significance in earlier models, its explanatory power diminished when controlling for other factors. The findings indicate that older adults’ interest in virtual volunteering is primarily shaped by perceived usefulness of digital tools and their willingness to improve technical competence. This study confirms the relevance of the TAM and Digital Divide theories regarding virtual volunteerism. In practical terms, the findings indicate that program design should combine usability-focused platform features and targeted support that lower both technological and motivational barriers for older adults interested in virtual volunteering. Full article

(1) Background: Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) are a major cause of mortality among older adults globally. The cognitive decline associated with ADRD often reduces individuals’ ability to live independently over time, increasing reliance on caregivers. Assistive and socially assistive robots offer a promising means of supporting independent living. This narrative review examined how older adults with ADRD, their caregivers, and healthcare providers perceive and experience interactions with robots. (2) Methods: Guided by the Population, Phenomenon of Interest, and Context (PICo) framework, five databases were searched. Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Extracted data were summarized, and a convergent synthesis integrated qualitative and quantitative findings. (3) Results: Drawing on content analysis, the qualitative findings were organized into three domains: user perceptions and experiences, barriers to adoption, and suggestions for improvement. Quantitative results emphasized usability, usefulness, acceptance, satisfaction, feature preferences, and barriers. While most stakeholders viewed robots as beneficial, acceptance was shaped by factors such as design features, timing of introduction, familiarity with technology, and perceived need. (4) Conclusions: This review highlights priorities for future research and development, including personalization, ethical safeguards, and caregiver integration, to improve the acceptance and effectiveness of robot-assisted support for individuals with cognitive impairment. Full article

This study focuses on firefighters’ relationship with different types of change in their profession and what barriers and facilitators might contribute to how they respond. Informed by the Force Field analysis of change, interviews were conducted to better understand what specific barriers and facilitators contribute to their views on types of change and the level of influence they carried. Twenty-five interviews were conducted with firefighters from a variety of backgrounds, including different ages, genders, ranks, and experience levels for both career and volunteer firefighters. Thematic analysis identified different responses to four common rationales that helped to explain the acceptance or dismissal of changes. These were as follows: (1) openness or apprehension towards change; (2) the results of a cost–benefit analysis that considered financial and manpower limits, perceived legitimacy of the problem, and efficacy of the solution; (3) reference to past experiences with changes that had failed or succeeded; and (4) trusted messengers that respected the chain of command were preferred. These themes are applicable across multiple types of changes, including technological and cultural adaptation. However, they also reveal challenges that may emerge due to friction with firefighters’ professional identities and traditional masculine norms. The patterns identified here can help to inform future efforts to implement changes and to anticipate likely points of friction or motivation that can be leveraged. Full article

Frying native potato chips produces snacks that are widely accepted, although they are associated with high fat content and the formation of potentially undesirable compounds. This study evaluated the effect of pretreatment with ultrasound at 28 and 40 kHz on the physicochemical, structural, and sensory properties of chips made from the Sempal and Agustina varieties. The chips were immersed in water and treated with ultrasound for 10 min before frying at 175 °C. Parameters such as moisture, fat content, water activity, color, reducing sugars, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM microscopy, and sensory acceptance by consumers were analyzed. Treatment with 40 kHz significantly reduced fat content (up to 22.07%), improved crispness, and promoted a more porous microstructure. A lower concentration of reducing sugars, greater brightness, and less darkening were also observed. Sensory evaluation showed that chips treated with 40 kHz were the most preferred and best rated in terms of texture and flavor. Finally, it was demonstrated that pretreatment with ultrasound at 40 kHz improved the technological and sensory quality of native potato chips, which would promote the value of these resources in healthy products. Full article