Case Study Research Articles

What Did My Users Experience? Discovering Visual Stimuli on Graphical User Interfaces of the Web

Main tasks of usability experts for Web sites comprise the analysis of user interaction behavior on graphical user interfaces, the discovery of issues, and the derivation of improvements to the interface. The analysis of user interaction behavior and corresponding discovery of issues are made difficult by modern Web interfaces that incorporate dynamic interface elements and that orchestrate complex reactions to user responses. We propose a semi-automated approach for discovering visual stimuli, which capture summarized views of the interface as encountered by users during interaction. Discovered visual stimuli allow for meaningful aggregations of user interactions based on what users encountered on the interface such that the analysis by usability experts can relate the interface views with user interactions correctly and identify arising issues. We provide WebVSD as an implementation of the approach and perform a set of evaluations with real-world Web sites that show the accuracy of proposed methods in isolation and in the tool chain, as well as case studies and a survey of usability experts indicating the usefulness of the suggested approach.

IntelliFuzz: An Advanced Fuzzy Logic Framework for Dynamic Evaluation of Student Performance in Open-Ended Learning Tasks

This study presents IntelliFuzz, an advanced fuzzy logic-based assessment system designed for the dynamic evaluation of student performance in open-ended tasks. The proposed system leverages fuzzy logic to address the inherent subjectivity and ambiguity in evaluating tasks such as essays, project work, and case studies. IntelliFuzz incorporates multiple evaluation criteria, including task relevance, critical thinking, creativity, and presentation quality, to generate a comprehensive performance score. Experimental results on a dataset of 500 student submissions demonstrate the effectiveness of IntelliFuzz. The system achieved a 95% accuracy in aligning with expert assessments and reduced evaluation time by 30% compared to traditional manual grading methods. The fuzzy inference system was calibrated using 150 expert feedback samples, yielding an average correlation coefficient of 0.92 between system-generated scores and expert evaluations. Furthermore, IntelliFuzz was rated 85% satisfactory by instructors for its ability to provide consistent and fair evaluations.The study highlights the potential of fuzzy logic in educational assessment, offering a scalable and efficient solution for evaluating subjective student tasks. Future research will focus on integrating machine learning to further enhance the adaptability and precision of the system.

Microplastics in Urban Bird Feces: A Methodological Approach and Case Study in Mexico City

Microplastics (MP) are ubiquitous contaminants in diverse environmental matrices, including biota. Urban birds, such as pigeons (Columba livia), are particularly vulnerable to MP exposure due to their scavenging habits and proximity to human activities. This study developed and applied a methodology to assess MP presence in pigeon feces, starting with a review of existing methods for extracting MPs from organic matrices. Of all the methodologies investigated, a method was established to be tested, varying the reagent, using pigeon feces collected from the Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Azcapotzalco Unit (UAM-A) and 15 virgin microplastics of five different types. Of both reagents, it was found that the method with 50% H2O2 presented better results (degradation of almost all organic matter and recovery efficiency of 93.33%). The selected method was optimized before being applied to feces collected from three sites in Mexico City (n = 10 samples per site). MPs were extracted using a digestion process with 50% hydrogen peroxide, flotation test with CaCl2, staining with red Nile dye and vacuum filtration and analyzed by microscopy and FTIR. Concentrations ranged from 16.4 to 27.8 MP/g dry feces, with fragments (80%) and fibers (20%) being the predominant shapes. The most common colors were black (32%) and white (22%), the polymers identified included polystyrene and polyethylene and the most common size was < 1 mm (54%). These findings suggest that pigeons ingest MP during feeding, likely due to confusion with organic matter, highlighting the risks of urban plastic pollution to avian health. The ingestion of MPs could lead to malnutrition, organ damage, and ecosystem imbalances, underscoring the need for improved waste management in urban areas. This study provides evidence of the pervasive impact of plastic pollution in non-marine environments, demonstrating the potential of urban birds as bio-indicators of local contamination.

Ethical leadership and green human resource management: improving social sustainable performance in the Greek Maritime industry

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings Ethical leadership and green human resource management both have a direct, significant and positive effect on social sustainable performance. The partial mediating effect of green human resource management in the relationship between ethical leadership and social sustainable performance is confirmed. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Assessing the Impact of Human and Technological Factors on Hospital Management Information System Utilization: A Case Study at Hospital X In Padang City Indonesia

This study examines the application of the HOT-Fit method, which evaluates the relationship between Human, Technology, and Net Benefit components within the Hospital Management Information System (HMIS) at Hospital X Padang. The Human component is assessed based on system usage and user satisfaction, while the Technology component is analyzed through information quality, service quality, and system quality. This study employs a quantitative crosssectional design, with the research population comprising all active users of the HMIS application at Hospital X Padang, including employees from various departments interacting with the system. The research aims to determine the extent to which the Human and Technology components influence the Net Benefit of the HMIS and to explore these relationships in greater depth. The findings reveal a significant relationship between the Human component and the Net Benefit, as well as between the Technology component and the Net Benefit of the HMIS. Among the factors examined, Technology emerges as the most dominant factor affecting the Net Benefit of the system. These results provide valuable insights for optimizing the implementation and impact of HMIS in healthcare settings.

Improved Inland Water Level Estimates with Sentinel-6 Fully Focused SAR Processing: A Case Study in the Ebre River Basin

The observation of small to medium inland water targets with nadir radar altimeters is currently limited by the along-track resolution of UnFocused SAR (UFSAR) altimetry, which is approximately 300 m for Delay-Doppler processors. In this study, we analyze the benefits of the sub-meter along-track resolution provided by Fully Focused SAR (FFSAR) altimetry applied to Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich data over a collection of small to medium targets in the Ebre Basin, Spain. The obtained water level estimations over a 2-year period are compared to in situ data to evaluate the long-term accuracy of the algorithm. The proposed FFSAR altimetry methodology achieves an average MAD precision of roughly 4 cm, and allows for a full operational implementation as it can be processed in a totally unsupervised manner. The precision improvement with respect to Delay-Doppler products over the same targets is essentially attributed to the FFSAR capabilities to better filter out waveforms contaminated by off-nadir scatterers. Moreover, we evaluate the application of extended water masks, which exploit nadir–altimeter measurements where water is at nadir or up to 250 m across-track from nadir to increase the number of acquisitions while maintaining the same level of accuracy, increasing by an average of 48% the number of valid measurements per pass, while maintaining the same level of accuracy as nadir measurements over water. We thus demonstrate the potential of FFSAR altimetry to monitor the water level of small to medium inland water targets.

How flood-resilient port infrastructure can reduce economic impacts of climate change: a case study of the US inland waterways

ABSTRACT The US inland waterways are critical to the domestic economy but prone to disruptions from extreme weather events, notably floods, which have cascading impacts on supply chains. Although floods are expected to increase in intensity and frequency as a result of climate change, no research has been done to analyse economic impacts of disruptions from floods along inland waterways under future climate scenarios or to analyse how flood-resilient port infrastructure can help mitigate losses. This study combines climate, agent-based, and economic input-output modelling to estimate impacts of future flood disruptions along the Upper Mississippi River and to evaluate a case study where the development of a climate-resilient port can help mitigate economic impacts of such events. Results show that disruptions tend to become more severe with higher degrees of warming. Additionally, Illinois and Louisiana are the states in the region expected to suffer the greatest production losses, and agriculture and chemical manufacturing are the most adversely impacted industries. The study finds that the development of a flood-resilient port near the mouth of Upper Mississippi River can help cost-effectively reroute shipments and mitigate losses during many future disruption scenarios.

Child Labour and Human Rights: A Socio-Legal Study of Policy Gaps and Challenges in India

Despite the legal setup, child labour is one of the serious socio-legal problems and a severe violation of human rights in India for millions of children. It shows that this significant problem exists here, although well-established laws prohibited child labour several decades ago. This research investigates the socio-economic factors, mainly poverty, education access denial, social norms, and labour laws' non-compliance in developing child labour among the vulnerable populace. It analyzes the existing mechanisms of law through critical examination in the light of the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Act, 1986, amended in 2016, the Right to Education Act, 2009, and other international conventions ratified by India. Through a case study from different states, this research exposes the loopholes in enforcement and policy implementation regarding sectors like agriculture, mining, garment industry, and domestic labour. Findings indicate that the weaknesses in law enforcement, corruption, bureaucracy, and lack of interagency coordination exacerbate this issue, thereby leaving many children open to exploitation. A multi-pronged approach strengthening legal enforcement, enhancing rehabilitation programs, integrating technology to monitor child labour, and increasing public awareness would serve as a necessary condition for sustainable eradication. This study emphasizes that because of the non-governmental organizations, the Indian government, and international agencies working together, child rights have to be taken seriously.

THE INDEPENDENTISATION OF AFRICAN HISTORIOGRAPHY

This paper explores the evolution of African historiography within the broader context of global history, highlighting its significance as an academic discipline. The introduction underscores the critical role of history in understanding human agency and change, particularly in the context of Africa's colonial past, which has often been narrated through a Eurocentric lens. The methodological framework employed is comparative, examining African and non-African scholarly contributions, focusing on case studies that illustrate the diversity of perspectives in African historiography. Through a thorough analysis of pioneering figures such as Carl Christian Reindorf, alongside contemporary scholars like Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o and Molefe Asante, the study reveals how indigenous narratives and oral histories have increasingly challenged established Eurocentric interpretations. Key findings indicate that despite the progress made in reclaiming African narratives, significant gaps remain within the historiographical tradition, primarily due to historical marginalisation. The paper further discusses the necessity of integrating digital history into African historiography, suggesting that such an approach can enhance accessibility and engagement with diverse historical narratives. This research advocates for an expanded understanding of African history as an essential component of global historiography, emphasising the importance of incorporating multiple methodologies and voices to construct a more comprehensive and nuanced historical narrative.

Coverage matters: identifying and mitigating sampling frame issues in recreational fishing surveys

Abstract Surveys play an integral part in monitoring and maintaining sustainable recreational fisheries. For any probabilistic survey, the selection of a sampling frame (e.g., list of individuals or fishers) is an important decision because it influences the ability to provide unbiased estimates of recreational catch and effort. Undercoverage occurs when units of the target population (i.e., the population of interest) are missing from the frame population. This error can undermine the reliability of research advice generated from survey estimates. In this review, we: (i) define six sampling frame configurations that are commonly applied in probabilistic recreational fishing surveys; (ii) synthesise how coverage errors associated with each configuration have been addressed for marine recreational fisheries globally; (iii) outline approaches to identify and correct for coverage errors; and (iv) recommend how to future-proof coverage issues. In our six case studies, multiple types of undercoverage were identified and addressed to varying extents, depending on the characteristics of each fishery and type of sampling frame used. Generalised list frames (particularly phone lists) are arguably the most prone to undercoverage error. To assist in future-proofing surveys, we recommend: (1) considering coverage error during survey planning; (2) designing pilot surveys or scheduling concurrent surveys to evaluate and/or correct for potential bias; (3) recognising that coverage error often changes through time; (4) using technological or multi-frame approaches to mitigate coverage error; (5) considering model-based survey tools to correct for undercoverage; and (6) documenting the sampling frame and potential sources of coverage error in publications. These recommendations extend to inland recreational fisheries, commercial fishing surveys and fisheries-independent surveys. Graphical abstract

Context effects on healthy food choice under situational modes of consumer thinking: A case study with poke bowls.

In the context of healthy food consumption, this research aims to explore the moderating role of situational modes of thinking for both 1) the attraction effect (individuals tend to choose options that are similar to others but dominate inferior alternatives) and 2) the compromise effect (individuals prefer intermediate options over those with high- and low-end extremes). With the experimental priming of thinking style (analytic vs. holistic), these context effects were investigated by measuring French participants' purchase intention and willingness to pay for poke bowls-a lower-calorie, nutrient-dense food. The results demonstrate that situational induction of thinking style has a differential impact on the relative increase in consumers' purchase preferences for options offering either a dominant value in a specific attribute or an intermediate value throughout the available attributes. The attraction (compromise) effect was amplified with analytic (holistic) thinking style, leading consumers to have a higher purchase intention and willingness to pay for the dominating (intermediate) option of poke bowls. This research highlights the shifts in purchase preferences depending on consumer thinking in either the analytic or holistic mode and suggests effective global strategies to facilitate target consumers' purchase orientation toward a specific option of lower-calorie packaged foods.

A theoretical and computational model for the synergy of electrostriction and photovoltaic effect to create photostriction

The phenomenon of photostriction, which involves generating mechanical actuation in response to light, is observed in a very limited number of materials from ferroelectric, semiconductors, and organic material classes. This limited choice of materials, combined with their responsiveness to narrow light spectra, has constrained the broader adoption of photostriction in practical applications. This study introduces a novel approach by integrating photovoltaic and electrostrictive couplings in composites made of a photovoltaic matrix with ferroelectric inclusions, yielding an apparent photostrictive effect. By leveraging the simultaneous action of both photovoltaic and electrostrictive effects, the composite efficiently converts irradiated optical energy into mechanical energy, enabling mechanical actuation across a broader range of materials and light spectra. First, we develop a computational framework for intertwined multiphysics coupling of the photovoltaic effect with nonlinear electrostriction, based on a novel constitutive model. Then, to evaluate all the effective properties that define the composite's behavior, we introduce a multiphysics-coupled homogenization framework capable of computing elastic, electrostrictive, dielectric, and thermal properties. Finally, a shell finite element formulation based on the assumptions of first-order shear deformation theory is used to analyze the behavior of the homogenized photo-electrostrictive composite based actuator. This study demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed composite by examining the deflection response of structures laminated with this photostrictive composite. Several case studies are conducted to provide insights into the development and characterization of photo-electrostrictive composites, which hold great potential for applications in mechanical actuation, shape morphing, and beyond.

Digital Finance Ecosystems and Their Role in Advancing Financial Inclusion: Opportunities, Risks, and Future Directions

Digital finance ecosystems are revolutionizing the financial landscape by integrating cutting-edge technologies to provide financial services to previously underserved populations. This paper explores the role of these ecosystems in advancing financial inclusion, focusing on opportunities, risks, and future directions. Through real-time data, case studies, and visual analyses, the paper highlights the components of digital finance ecosystems, evaluates their impact on financial inclusion, and proposes strategies for mitigating associated risks. Key insights into partnerships, inclusive finance models, and future trends are also presented.

The impact of BIM on project time and cost: insights from case studies

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a transformative tool in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries, offering significant potential to improve project efficiency and outcomes. This study explores the impact of BIM implementation on project time and cost by analyzing critical factors such as design errors, unbudgeted changes, Requests for Information (RFIs), labour dynamics, and scheduling across multiple case studies. Quantitative results reveal that BIM adoption reduces project timelines by an average of 20% and costs by 15%, while also decreasing design errors by 30% and RFIs by 25%. Furthermore, BIM enhances collaboration among stakeholders, improves design visualization, and facilitates better risk assessment, leading to more informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle. These findings are synthesized into a decision-making framework that estimates the probability of errors, evaluates their potential time and cost implications, and ensures alignment with project budgets. The framework serves as a strategic guide for project teams to assess the suitability of BIM for specific projects, thereby optimizing decision-making processes and improving overall project performance. Additionally, the study examines the role of BIM in sustainability by reducing material waste and improving resource allocation. This study addresses a critical gap in the field by systematically evaluating the interrelationships among BIM's impacts on key project parameters, which have often been treated in isolation in prior research. The importance of this work lies in its provision of a structured methodology to harness BIM's capabilities, demonstrating its value in delivering significant time and cost efficiencies while enhancing project quality. By integrating empirical analysis with practical applications, this research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on BIM adoption and provides actionable insights for AEC professionals seeking to optimize project outcomes.

The Stereoselectivity of Neighboring Group-Directed Glycosylation Is Concentration-Dependent.

The formation of 1,2-trans-glycosides taking advantage of neighboring group participation by stereodirecting esters at the 2-position of glycosyl donors is widely held to be a robust and reliable protocol. Examples abound, however, of cases in which less-than-perfect selectivity is obtained, causing practitioners to survey different esters or resort to alternative strategies in the quest for optimal selectivities and yields. Consideration of the mechanism of neighboring group participation and in particular of the competing process of SN2-like glycosylation with activated covalent donors leads to the hypothesis that in cases of imperfect selectivity, more careful attention to reaction concentration and stoichiometry may be beneficial. Three case studies are presented to demonstrate the concentration dependence of neighboring group-directed glycosylation reactions targeting the formation of both 1,2-trans-equatorial and 1,2-trans-axial glycosides. Higher concentrations, whether achieved through increased acceptor:donor stoichiometry or through increased concentration at a fixed stoichiometry, mostly lead to erosion of 1,2-trans-selectivity as the competing SN2-like reaction with the covalent donors becomes increasingly important. These observations underline the importance of a rational, mechanism-based approach to glycosylation in general and more importantly suggest a simple approach to enhancing 1,2-trans-selectivity in neighboring group-directed glycosylation reactions displaying less-than-perfect 1,2-trans-selectivity, namely, moving to a different concentration regime.

A New Algorithm for the Global-Scale Quantification of Volcanic SO2 Exploiting the Sentinel-5P TROPOMI and Google Earth Engine

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is sourced by degassing magma in the shallow crust; hence its monitoring provides information on the rates of magma ascent in the feeding conduit and the style and intensity of eruption, ultimately contributing to volcano monitoring and hazard assessment. Here, we present a new algorithm to extract SO2 data from the TROPOMI imaging spectrometer aboard the Sentinel-5 Precursor satellite, which delivers atmospheric column measurements of sulfur dioxide and other gases with an unprecedented spatial resolution and daily revisit time. Specifically, we automatically extract the volcanic clouds by introducing a two-step approach. Firstly, we used the Simple Non-Iterative Clustering segmentation method, which is an object-based image analysis approach; secondly, the K-means unsupervised machine learning technique is applied to the segmented images, allowing a further and better clustering to distinguish the SO2. We implemented this algorithm in the open-source Google Earth Engine computing platform, which provides TROPOMI imagery collection adjusted in terms of quality parameters. As case studies, we chose three volcanoes: Mount Etna (Italy), Taal (Philippines) and Sangay (Ecuador); we calculated sulfur dioxide mass values from 2018 to date, focusing on a few paroxysmal events. Our results are compared with data available in the literature and with Level 2 TROPOMI imagery, where a mask is provided to identify SO2, finding an optimal agreement. This work paves the way to the release of SO2 flux time series with reduced delay and improved calculation time, hence contributing to a rapid response to volcanic unrest/eruption at volcanoes worldwide.

A Case Study of Udavartini Yonivyapada and its Management in Ayurveda with Special Reference to Dysmenorrhoea

Motherhood is the cherished desire deep down in the heart of every woman as it adds a new meaning to her life and existence. Today’s stressful modern life style affects women’s health physically and psychologically specially during reproductive phase resulting in abnormalities in menstruation like Dysmenorrhoea which finds a simile in Ayurveda with Udavartini Yonivyapada. Even though Dysmenorrhoea is not a serious ailment but it interrupts patient’s personal, economic and social life and also it may lead into many complications. In Ayurveda, treatment modalities are available which provide long term relief, without adverse effects. In this case study, Saptasaara Kwatha was selected for the management of Udavartini Yonivyapada w.s.r. to Dysmenorrhoea

International case competitions

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings By preparing students to improve skills, broaden their horizons, and learn from feedback, these courses create competitive employees well-prepared for their prospective fields. Research limitations/implications The limitations of this paper include the small sample size and a focus on international case competitions which left a research gap on domestic competition outcomes. Practical implications Higher education institutions should promote and integrate international case competitions into their curriculum offerings to give their students stronger employment opportunities. Teachers should prioritize professional lectures and feedback in their competitions to optimize learning outcomes. Teachers should further ensure the balance of theory and practice to optimize course outcomes, ensuring knowledge is modern and forward-thinking to prepare students for future markets. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

Working with local suppliers in emerging markets

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings International manufacturers become better positioned to succeed in emerging markets when forming alliances with suppliers who boast knowledge of local conditions. Emphasis on supply chain integration and agility can increase the buying firm’s competitiveness. However, such operators must remain aware that high dependency on local suppliers can create power asymmetry in favor of the supplier. Research limitations/implications n/a Practical implications n/a Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.

INFLUENCE OF CENTRAL COURTYARD’S DAYLIGHTING ON VISUAL COMFORT AT TAMARIND SQUARE SELANGOR, MALAYSIA: A CASE STUDY

Current commercial buildings are designed in a compact and massive form leading to an unhealthy environment. Courtyard is an effective daylight passive design strategy implemented in a building that can contribute to a healthier environment. Moreover, courtyards can also act as a multi-functional space that can enhance social activities. These two potentials make courtyards relevant in solving the issues which arise in current commercial building’s design. However, Malaysia is a tropical country with bright sky condition. To make use of the potential of daylight in courtyards in a tropical climate, a design strategy is needed to adapt with the over exposure of sunlight. To study the influence of daylight in courtyards and the strategies needed to counter the issues of visual discomfort, Tamarind Square was chosen as a case study, as the building is considered as one of the best design practices in Malaysia, based on the recognitions given by the Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) and other notable bodies. Daylight design strategies are examined to verify whether courtyards in Tamarind Square do meet the criteria for good visual comfort. Visual comfort is analysed based on visual comfort parameters that include: available amount of light, light uniformity, shading strategy, risk of glare, choice of material, access to view, and colours. There were three courtyards involved in this study: the North Court, the Centre Court and the South Court. Each of these courtyards has its own strategies in adapting to tropical climate and providing good visual comfort, while at the same time meeting its purpose as part of the commercial space in Tamarind Square.