Case Study Research Articles

Pre-simulation Preparation Preferences of Senior Nursing Students: Virtual Simulation Games Versus Traditional Case Studies

BackgroundPresimulation preparation is critical to prepare learners to participate fully in clinical simulations; however, many do not complete assigned presimulation activities. Research QuestionWhich presimulation preparation activities will senior nursing students choose and perceive as helpful? MethodsA quasi-experimental study evaluated senior nursing student (n = 115) pre-simulation preparation preferences. Students had access to eight activities including a case study and a virtual simulation game (VSG). Participants indicated which activities they completed, and rated the case study and VSG in terms of usability, engagement, and impact on learning. ResultsOverall, 57% of participants completed the paper-based case study and 37% played the VSG. Participation in any preparation resulted in significant improvements in competence (t = 2.3; p = .02). Learners rated VSG higher than case study in terms of usability (t = 2.6; p = .01), engagement (t = 2.8; p = .01) and impact on learning (t = 2.4; p = .02). ConclusionResults revealed nursing students have different preferences for pre-simulation preparation. Although more students completed the case study than the VSG, those who played the game rated it higher. This supports providing a choice in presimulation preparation activities.

Computer simulation in data analysis: A case study from particle physics

The paper presents a case study of the data analysis in the CDHS scattering experiment of particle physics performed in 1983. The case study compares the function of computer simulation in the data analysis with recent philosophical work on the role of simulations in high energy physics (HEP) and the theory-ladenness of the data. In the data analysis of CDHS, computer simulations entered an iterative process of probabilistic data correction. The computer simulation was a crucial ingredient of the data analysis that served to increase the accuracy of the measurement. The way in which simulation was used corresponds in a certain sense to the function of “models as mediators” (Morgan and Morrison), by mediating knowledge about measurement errors and the way of correcting them. I argue that this use of simulation did not give rise to a vicious circle of adjusting data to theory and vice versa but only to a weak, or benign, theory-ladenness of the data compatible with scientific realism. In the publication of the CDHS results, the measurement outcomes are called “observed data”, indicating a realist attitude of the physicists towards the measured quantities which does not exactly fit in with entity realism or theory realism.

Customer Service Through AI-Powered Human-Robot Relationships: Where are we now? The case of Henn na Cafe, Japan

Throughout history, interactions between humans and robots, and robots themselves have experienced profound shifts, generating a plethora of literature within the domains of manufacturing and services. Despite the abundance of scientific publications, consensus regarding these relationships remains elusive, fostering ambiguity within and between these domains. This article aims to present an encompassing and widely accepted perspective on the existing body of literature, seeking to unravel the nature of these relational paradigms. Our objective revolves around analyzing that zeroes in on the enhancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within Human-Robot relationships, particularly in the context of services. Henceforth, our research pivots toward a specialized body of literature exploring the domain of technical-biosocial systems, which encompasses human-technology-social structures. By doing so, we aim to analyze AI within a more delimited context, thereby mitigating the critique that a gap persists in scholarly discourse owing to the predominant analysis of AI within a global purview. Mindful of the potential drawbacks associated with a purely holistic and aggregated conceptual theoretical model, we have opted to subject our model to empirical validation. To achieve this, a case study was employed, with a specific focus on the avant-garde Henn na Cafe in Japan. The findings underline that currently, Henn na Cafe employs Human-Robot Interaction and Collaboration (HRI-C). However, there is an expectation that service companies will embrace an evolving HRI-C by integrating AI to enhance service delivery activities. Alternatively, they may opt for a Robot-Robot Interaction and Collaboration (RRI-C) approach with improved social capabilities or multi-human/multi-robot systems. The empirical findings are consistent with existing literature, which indicates a contemporary scholarly interest in investigating complex and emotional systems within service-oriented environments. These environments, characterized by elevated levels of AI, present challenges for AI systems in executing service functions effectively. Recent research endeavors aim to synthesize and assess the prevailing understanding and research directions within this domain. This convergence of findings not only reinforces theoretical research but also provides supplementary perspectives on human-robot relations and the complexities involved in service delivery within technologically sophisticated settings. Subsequent research endeavors could pivot towards a heightened focus on the services sector, exploring potential relationships and how AI might either fortify the services domain or pivot towards a vantage point centered on multi-robot systems.

Analysis of tera gymnastic as an intervention of acute pain nursing problems in elderly families with hypertension

Background: One of the problems that occurs in the elderly is hypertension. Hypertension has many symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping, and one of them is acute pain in the nape of the neck. In treating pain, there are two methods of treatment: pharmacological techniques and non-pharmacological treatments. One of the non-pharmacological treatments is tera exercise. Terra exercise is an alternative way to reduce pain. Objective: To analyze the implementation of acute pain nursing care for elderly families who experience hypertension problems in Trayeman Pleret Hamlet, Bantul. Method: This research method uses descriptive methods. The approach used is a case study with the management of one case using a nursing care process approach involving elderly families who experience acute pain nursing problems with hypertension. Results: After performing tera exercises three times for ± 60 minutes, participants said the pain had decreased from a pain scale of 5 to 2. Conclusion: The application of tera exercise can reduce the problem of acute pain nursing in elderly families with hypertension.

Assessment of Electric Vehicle Charging On Distribution Transformer Aging, Aswan City as a Case Study

Assessment of Electric Vehicle Charging On Distribution Transformer Aging, Aswan City as a Case Study

Deep learning-based prediction of float model performance in floatplanes: A case study on lift-to-drag coefficient ratio

Developing an engineering design is resource-intensive and time-consuming, particularly for the floats of a floatplane design, due to its complexity and limited testing facilities. Intelligent-based computational design (IBCD) techniques, which integrate computational design techniques and machine learning (ML) algorithms, offer a solution to reduce required testing by providing predictions. This paper proposes a deep learning (DL)-based IBCD method for modeling floats' lift-to-drag coefficient ratio (C<sub>L</sub>/C<sub>D</sub>), where DL is one of the most powerful ML. The proposed method consists of two phases: hyper-parameter optimization and DL model training and evaluation. A genetic algorithm (GA) is employed in the first phase to explore complex hyper-parameter combinations efficiently. Evaluation of the predicted C<sub>L</sub>/C<sub>D</sub> of the floats using the DL model resulted in a satisfactory R-squared of 0.9329 and the lowest mean squared error (MSE) of 0,001536. These results demonstrate the ability of DL model to predict the float's performance accurately and can facilitate further design optimization. Thus, the proposed method can offer a time-efficient and cost-effective solution for predicting float performance, aiding in optimizing floatplane designs and enhancing their functionalities.

Heterogeneity in Marginal Willingness to Pay for Urban Space Quality: A Case Study in Beijing

Heterogeneity in Marginal Willingness to Pay for Urban Space Quality: A Case Study in Beijing

Filipino migrant worker organisations, social capital and disaster resilience: An Aotearoa-New Zealand case study

There is increasing evidence that access to social capital, and particularly linking capital can significantly enhance the resilience of minoritized and vulnerable communities impacted by disasters. Understanding levels and types of access to social capital within such communities before disasters occur is an important part of disaster risk management policy and planning. Migrant worker communities, however, remain an understudied group in general, and there are very few published findings concerned with the 3.5 million Filipino migrant workers who primarily live in high-income host countries. This article contributes to addressing this gap with an Aotearoa-New Zealand qualitative case study that aims to increase understanding of the social capital accessed pre-disaster by members of Filipino migrant worker organisations in the Canterbury region. Interview and focus group data indicated that worker organisations facilitated access to local Filipino migrant worker networks, contributing to consistently high reliance on bonding capital, but less access to bridging or linking capital. This trend is linked to the precarious immigration status afforded by temporary work visas, which increased the vulnerability of participants. Only one organisation provided access to the linking capital required to mitigate this vulnerability. Factors influencing the capacity of organisations to develop linking capital appeared to include establishment objectives, length of time since establishment and support from government and industry groups. These findings emphasize the valuable role that migrant worker organisations can play in mitigating disaster risks, through providing connections that facilitate support and resourcing from authorities and industry bodies.

Land Evaluation and Assessment of Land Cover Change Using Geospatial Techniques: A Case Study in West Samlout Area, Egypt.

Land Evaluation and Assessment of Land Cover Change Using Geospatial Techniques: A Case Study in West Samlout Area, Egypt.

Chemical characteristics and health risk evaluation of natural waters in the Du River Source National Nature Reserve: A case study in Zhushan County, Hubei Province, China

To study the distribution of trace elements in natural water of the Du River Source National Nature Reserve and to assess the water quality and health risks, Zhushan County in Hubei Province was selected as the study area. Element content in 361 natural water samples collected from Zhushan County were measured by ICP-MS, ICP-OES, and HG-AFS. The main anions and cations present in water samples from Zhushan County are Ca2+ and HCO3−. The water chemistry is predominantly influenced by the weathering of carbonate rocks. The water samples with high content of selenium (Se) (0∼82.9 μg/L, mean 4.6 μg/L) in natural water in Zhushan County are mainly distributed in the northern part of Zhushan. The strontium (Sr) content of 49.6% of the water samples (0.001–2.177 mg/L, mean 0.234 mg/L) reached the criteria of natural mineral water for drinking in China (Sr ≥ 0.2 mg/L), which is distributed throughout the county. The high content of metasilicic acid (H2SiO3) (0.026–35.910 mg/L, mean 12.598 mg/L) and zinc (Zn) (0∼407.218 μg/L, mean 12.406 μg/L) are concentrated in northern Zhushan County. 99.7% water samples were freshwater and 98.9% meet the criteria of “good” water quality. All of the natural water samples have low health risk and low heavy metal pollution. 6.1% water samples meet the criteria of Se-type mineral water, while 45.4% meet the criteria of Sr-type mineral water, and 4.4% water samples meet the criteria of “low sodium, high Se, and high Sr” mineral water. Zhushan County has the potential for Se-type mineral water and Sr-type mineral water development. The findings of this study hold immense significance for the public health implications of drinking water in Du River Source, thereby offering valuable insights for effective water resources management.

A computational sustainable approach for energy storage systems performance evaluation based on spherical-fuzzy MCDM with considering uncertainty

Incorporating energy storage systems (ESSs) can mitigate the intermittency of renewable energy sources. There are a variety of ESSs for renewable energy with vastly different characteristics. The problem of diversity of characteristics in selecting the most appropriate ESS can be approached as a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem. This research evaluates sustainable ESSs through a case study in Egypt. A sustainable computational approach is presented through which experts can use verbal expressions to express their opinions in determining the priorities of the dimensions that affect the selection of ESSs. Determining the appropriate energy storage system requires consideration of several main dimensions such as the technology dimension, environmental dimension, economic dimension, and social-political dimension and, in addition to the sub-indicators. Hence, this research applies a hybrid MCDM approach that deals with different indicators and characteristics. Also, uncertainty in applying the proposed approach was dealt with by a spherical fuzzy (SF) environment and by using the spherical fuzzy numbers (SFNs). At first, the SF analytical hierarchy process (SF-AHP) method was used to assess the priorities of the four main dimensions and their sub-indicators. Then, the SF mixed aggregation by comprehensive normalization technique (SF-MACONT) was applied to evaluate and rank the ESSs selected for analysis through research. An illustrative case study was presented that included seven ESSs out of the eighteen systems listed in the research to confirm the feasibility of the developed approach. Sensitivity analysis was carried out by changing some parameters like λ, μ, δ, and ϑ based on the SF-MACONT method and changing the weights of some main dimensions. A comparative analysis with some MCDM approaches was conducted to show the advantages of the developed approach through its flexibility and built-in parameters. The findings show that the technology dimension is the most influential in choosing a sustainable ESS, while the economic dimension is the least influential. Also, the results of the evaluation and ranking of the seven selected ESSs indicate that the "Pumped Hydro" system is the most suitable system for energy storage in Egypt.

Reducing climate impacts on karst groundwater resources by constructing a cave dam. A case study from Central Taurus Karst, Türkiye

Susuz karst aquifer is a mountainous and highly karstified aquifer located at the Central Taurus karst belt, Seydişehir, Türkiye. Pınarbaşı karst spring is a major water resource of the Susuz karst aquifer which drains approximately 15 million m3 of water annually, mostly between January and July. As the Pınarbaşı spring dries up for the rest of the year, local water needs frequently emerge during the dry periods, especially for animal livestock and domestic usage. However, one major problem in the karst region is the decreasing trend in the spring discharge rate and increasing length of the dry period mainly due to the impact of climate change. For this reason, to reduce the climate impact on the karst aquifer it is essential to explore alternative engineering solutions where they are applicable. This study proposes the construction of a cave dam in the Susuz karst system to retain and store groundwater during the dry period. Based on the accumulated hydrogeological knowledge and experiences in the karst region, we first conceptualized the cave dam construction and then indicated the positive influence of the stored groundwater under changing climate considering two main climate scenarios (SSP245 and SSP585). Our findings indicate that the (proposed) cave dam potentially stores 4 million m3 of water, which equals nearly 35 % of the mean annual spring discharge under current climate conditions while this amount is also expected to rise over 50 % of the total discharge in future climate conditions.

Flux Ratios for Effects of Permanent Charges on Ionic Flows with Three Ion Species: Case Study (II)

Flux Ratios for Effects of Permanent Charges on Ionic Flows with Three Ion Species: Case Study (II)

Resilient spatial design strategies research of urban inland rivers: The case of Xinghai Lake wetland in Ningxia, China

Improving the resilience of rivers is a crucial method for mitigating urban flooding, restoring the ecological role of rivers, and promoting sustainable ecological development. This study specifically examines the relationship between changes in river morphology and river elasticity space, using the Xinghai Lake wetland as a case study. The MIKE 21 numerical model is employed to simulate and analyze the morphology changes of Xinghai Lake under various conditions during both the low-water and high-water periods. The findings indicated that during the period of abundant water, the inundation area of Xinghai Lake increased by 1.64 times, the average water level rose by 0.96 m, and the average flow speed decreased by approximately 11.8 % compared to the flat water period under the circulating condition within the lake. By utilizing Xinghai Lake as a channel for overflowing Yellow River water, the stability of the lake's body is improved. When Xinghai Lake is utilized as the channel for water from the Yellow River, it contributes to the increased stability of the lake. Based on the morphological characteristics of various river sections, this study identifies the potential areas for scouring, eutrophication, and flooding in the future. It also suggests specific strategic solutions to improve the resilience and ecological robustness of the river. These proposals aim to provide scientific support for enhancing the ecological robustness of urban inland lakes.

Effect of pulsed electric field processing on microbial and enzyme inactivation in blended plant-based milk alternatives: A case study on a microbial challenge test for a non-presterilized oat-based beverage enriched with pea protein

Microbial and enzyme inactivation by pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment was assessed in a blended plant-based milk alternative (PBMA) containing oats and pea protein without the application of presterilization. This was conducted to investigate a novel approach that permits PEF process validation for PBMA containing heat-labile components (protein and starch). Continuous PEF processing at moderate field strengths (9–10 kV/cm) combined with mild preheating (30–45 °C) for 25 s was applied over a range of specific energy inputs (77–245 kJ/L). Selective plating permitted bacterial enumeration of inoculated surrogate organism, despite the presence of natural microbial contaminants in the non-presterilized product. A minimum 5-log reduction of inoculated surrogates Escherichia coli and Listeria innocua alongside native microbiota was identified after preheating to 35–45 °C followed by PEF at 192–215 kJ/L. α-amylase activity was reduced by up to 89% during a similar PEF treatment (205 kJ/L, 40 °C). Overall, continuous PEF combined with mild preheating temperature was shown to achieve microbial inactivation in the pea protein enriched PBMA in compliance with current food safety regulations. Industrial relevancePresterilization is typically applied prior to conducting microbial challenge testing on food products to validate novel pasteurization treatments according to current regulatory requirements that a minimum 5-log reduction of relevant inoculated food pathogens must be achievable. However, for a variety of blended PBMA containing heat-labile proteins, presterilization is not advisable as the occurrence of irreversible changes in the product quality linked to protein coagulation and phase separation will affect the inactivation efficacy during subsequent microbial challenge testing. Hence, an alternative approach is presented utilizing a non-presterilized PBMA and thorough microbiological analysis, combining non-selective and selective plating techniques. This allows an identification of PEF treatment parameter with a minimum 5-log reduction of inoculated surrogate organism alongside naturally present microbial contaminants. This may serve as a valuable guideline for stakeholders in the food industry when addressing the efficacy of novel preservation treatments such as PEF in PBMA products with similar heat-induced product stability challenges.

Cost-optimization based target reliabilities for design of structures exposed to fire

Adequacy of structural fire design in uncommon structures is conceptually ensured through cost-benefit analysis where the future costs are balanced against the benefits of safety investment. Cost-benefit analyses, however, are complicated and computationally challenging, and hence impractical for application to individual projects. To address this issue, design guidance proposes target reliability indices for normal design conditions, but no target reliability indices are defined for structural fire design. We revisit the background of the cost-optimization based approach underlying normal design target reliability indices then we extend this approach for the case of fire design of structures. We also propose a modified objective function for cost-optimization which simplifies the evaluation of target reliability indices and reduces the number of assumptions. The optimum safety level is expressed as a function of a new dimensionless variable named “Damage-to-investment indicator” (DII). The cost optimization approach is validated for the target reliability indices for normal design condition. The method is then applied for evaluating DII and the associated optimum reliability indices for fire-exposed structures. Two case studies are presented: (i) a one-way loaded reinforced concrete slab and (ii) a steel column under axial loading. This study thus provides a framework for deriving optimum (target) reliability index for structural fire design which can support the development of rational provisions in codes and standards.

Modeling Dynamic Consumer Preferences in Product Attributes for Social Media-Based Product Improvement Planning

Consumer preferences for products change over time. The changes in consumer preferences are not just related to the level of importance of the attribute but also dynamics in the attribute itself. Previous studies generally employed the pre-determine attribute to measure the level of importance of the attribute. However, the pre-defined attributes approach has a problem in that new consumer attributes are not captured, resulting in misleading product development. Therefore, this study proposes a method to identify dynamic attributes and the level of importance of the attribute for product development without pre-determined attributes and unsupervised. A case study on the airline industry demonstrates the proposed method. Attribute changes are assessed using latent Dirichlet allocation to identify topics related to product attributes and sentiment analysis to evaluate satisfaction levels. Furthermore, the association rule approach is used to label unsupervised product topics. A total of 222,959 tweets related to the airline industry from 2015 to 2018 were collected and analyzed to demonstrate changes in consumer preferences over time. The results indicate that the proposed method effectively explores the dynamic of product attributes and critical attributes and provides valuable strategies for developing product or service improvement. The proposed method has also been validated and is in line with the successful innovation strategies of an Indonesian airline.

Improving the protection system in the distribution networks integrated with photovoltaic cells by changing the ratio of X/R

Due to the increased demand for electrical energy, many countries were prompted nowadays to search for new sources. One important source is the photovoltaic energy. However, despite the great benefits of this source, some defects where observed when linking to distribution networks (negative impact on the protection system). Hence, an approach of improving the protection system in distribution networks integrated with photovoltaic cells is presented in this paper. The protection system improvement is proposed by changing the impedance to resistance ratio (X/R) values of the networks cables, which leads to increasing the overcurrent relays' response speed when a fault occurs. A comparative analysis with different cable reactance values was conducted. The electrical transient analyzer program (ETAP) software was used to investigate and validate the effects on the relay’s response times. Amriya Fallujah power station, located in Iraq, was investigated as a case study. Simulation results show that it is possible to increase the response speed of the overcurrent relay by reducing X/R of the network cables. For more validation, the distance relay was used to compare the best improvement results of changing the X/R ratio with the results of changing the type of relay, which also shows the strength of the proposed method.

The synergy between workforce, students, and lecturers in collaborative learning

This research focuses on applying technology in collaborative learning, specifically through online platforms that connect students and the workforce. It is objective is to enhance synergy among the workforce, students, and educators to improve learning quality. The case study methodology follows Creswell’s qualitative approach with five key steps: planning the case study; data collection; analysis; result interpretation; and reporting. The research explores innovative online platforms to create a comprehensive and diverse learning experience. Technology enables access to materials, virtual classrooms, e-books, mobile learning, and internship programs, fostering flexible and engaging education. Collaborative learning with workforce participation enhances effectiveness and skills. Students gain work experience related to their fields through active interaction with practitioners. At the same time, educators refine teaching methods and understand workforce demands-the synergy among the workforce, students, and educators’ mutually beneficial relationships. The workforce leverages student resources for problem-solving and innovation, while students enhance their networks. Educators gain input for curriculum improvement. The research enhances education quality, prepares students for the dynamic workforce, and aligns educational programs with industry demands. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative learning, integrating online platforms to increase skill development.

Temporal Analysis of Land Subsidence and Groundwater Depletion Using the DInSAR and Kriging Methods: A Case Study and Insights

Temporal Analysis of Land Subsidence and Groundwater Depletion Using the DInSAR and Kriging Methods: A Case Study and Insights