Search

This study aimed to investigate the evolutionary design features in recent virtual fashion brand collections, analysing 314 design images from leading brands, such as Auroboros, Tribute, Republiqe, The Fabricant, and RTFKT. The analysis classified key design elements–colour, silhouette, texture, and textile patterns – into three phases: embryonic, transitional, and expansion. Findings revealed that the embryonic phase prioritises symbolising brand identities and goals as main design elements. The transitional phase marked a shift toward increased collaboration and experimental designs in response to emerging trends. In the expansion phase, collections shifted away from foundational design elements, displaying mature aesthetics and greater collaboration. These findings identify the evolutionary design features of virtual fashion in the Metaverse era and highlight insights into its consistency with contemporary fashion sensibilities. This research contributes to establishing a crucial knowledge base for research into the development of affective design systems, addressing consumer emotional requirements in virtual fashion design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking classes in a smart classroom is a novel experience for most college students in China, and comprehensive research on how Chinese students perceive smart classroom environments is limited. This study explored students' perceptions of smart classroom environments in plain language through a survey involving 358 students. The semantic difference and Kansei Engineering methods were employed to investigate students' perceptions of learning and physical environments and their relationships with the design features of smart classrooms. Statistical analysis revealed six factors of subjective assessments with a total interpretation rate of 66.29% and five design features of smart classrooms with a total interpretation rate of 59.40%. No significant differences were found across all the factors based on gender, but there were significant differences in students' technology self-efficacy according to each factor of subjective evaluation and design feature. All factors of the subjective assessments and design features exhibited significant correlations. Furthermore, regression models revealed a significant relationship between affective perception and other dimensions of subjective assessments and an important connection between the active learning environment and all design features. Thus, this study provides an empirical foundation for understanding students' perceptions of smart classrooms and offers a user-based perspective for designing smart classrooms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asynchronous video interviews (AVIs) are growing in popularity, but tend to suffer from negative applicant reactions, possibly due to lower social presence compared to other interview formats. Research has suggested that specific design features may influence applicant reactions by increasing perceived social presence. In this study, we manipulated the question format (video vs. text) during an actual hiring process (N = 76), testing whether video questions influence social presence, applicant reactions, impression management, and interview performance. There was no evidence that video (vs. text) questions affected any of these variables. We discuss how specific AVI design choices may have affected our results and suggest that future research could investigate the additive and interactive effects of different AVI design features. Practitioner points: Using video questions did not increase social presence when also using an introduction video.Using video questions did not affect applicant reactions, impression management, or interview performance.Our results suggest that for organizations using an introduction video and offering flexibility in the asynchronous video interview process (e.g., the opportunity to rerecord responses), it may not be worth the effort and cost to produce video questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex geometric layout of partial cloverleaf (parclo) interchanges elevates the chances of drivers inadvertently choosing the incorrect ramp or direction. Previous research on wrong-way driving (WWD) has emphasized the frequent incidents at the off-ramp terminals of parclo interchanges. Many WWD incidents that did not result in a collision haven't received enough attention from researchers. Geometric features such as ramp design, signage placement, and interchange layout significantly influence driver behavior and decision-making. In this study, a comparative analysis was conducted to explore the correlation between geometric design elements and their impact on WWD incidents at parclo interchange terminals. Over 5000 h of video footage were meticulously reviewed to document instances of WWD at 75 parclo interchange terminals across 13 states. Multiple correspondence analysis was applied to explore the characteristics of the locations with recurring WWD incidents. The results revealed numerous associations among design elements that contributed to the increased risk of WWD incidents, including uncontrolled ramp terminal intersections without street lighting on a two-lane crossroad, poor pavement marking on a wide median between the on- and off-ramps, and so on. The outcomes of this study can be helpful in identifying and improving the critical geometric design criteria in parclo interchanges to minimize WWD incidents.

Some meta-analyses have confirmed the efficacy of technology-enhanced vocabulary learning. However, they have not delved into the specific ways in which technology-based activities facilitate vocabulary acquisition, or into first-language vocabulary learning. We conducted a systematic review that retrieved 1,221 journal articles published between 2011 and 2023, of which 40 met our inclusion criteria. Most of the sampled studies focused on teaching receptive vocabulary knowledge and vocabulary breadth. All utilized cognitive strategies. Their common design features included noticing and receptive or productive retrieval, and most implicitly drew upon dual-coding theory. Our findings highlight the need for a balanced approach to vocabulary learning, encompassing both vocabulary breadth and depth, as well as receptive and productive knowledge. They also suggest that affective and social learning strategies should be promoted alongside the cognitive ones that are currently dominant. Additionally, our identification of commonly and rarely used design features can guide curriculum designers to develop more effective tools. Lastly, we argue that the design of technology-enhanced learning should be theory-driven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This research aimed to assess housing design consideration features and architects' perceptions of their effectiveness in malaria prevention. Previous studies have highlighted various architectural design elements that can reduce mosquito entry into homes, thus contributing to malaria prevention. This study aims to build on these insights by evaluating specific design features and gathering professional opinions on their effectiveness. Methods: The methodological approach adopted was quantitative, with data collected using a structured questionnaire containing closed-ended questions and a checklist. The observation checklist was used to ascertain mosquito entry reduction features incorporated in 208 systematically selected houses in Garneton East, Kitwe, Zambia. Additionally, a structured questionnaire containing fourteen key design features identified from the literature was administered to 76 architects purposively sampled to establish their perceptions of the effectiveness of these design factors in malaria prevention. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis. Results: The findings revealed that most houses needed to incorporate design features to reduce mosquito entry. The common features incorporated were ceilings (86.80%), screened air ventilation (59.80%), and window screens (54.40%). The use of window and door screens, as well as mosquito-repellent paint, were perceived as the most effective measures by the architects. Discussion: The results suggest a keen awareness among architects regarding the efficacy of certain design features in malaria prevention. Despite this awareness, the implementation of these features in actual housing designs needs to be improved. This indicates a need for greater effort and adaptation in building regulations to promote the use of mosquito entry reduction features. Enhancing housing designs with these features can significantly reduce malaria morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is recommended that building regulations be updated to support and encourage the incorporation of mosquito entry reduction features in housing designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pay-for-performance (P4P) schemes have been shown to have mixed effects on health care outcomes. A challenge in interpreting this evidence is that P4P is often considered a homogenous intervention, when in practice schemes vary widely in their design. Our study contributes to this literature by providing a detailed depiction of incentive design across municipalities within a national P4P scheme in Brazil [Primary Care Access and Quality (PMAQ)] and exploring the association of alternative design typologies with the performance of primary health care providers. We carried out a nation-wide survey of municipal health managers to characterize the scheme design, based on the size of the bonus, the providers incentivized and the frequency of payment. Using OLS regressions and controlling for municipality characteristics, we examined whether each design feature was associated with better family health team (FHT) performance. To capture potential interactions between design features, we used cluster analysis to group municipalities into five design typologies and then examined associations with quality of care. A majority of the municipalities included in our study used some of the PMAQ funds to provide bonuses to FHT workers, while the remaining municipalities spent the funds in the traditional way using input-based budgets. Frequent bonus payments (monthly) and higher size bonus allocations (share of 20–80%) were strongly associated with better team performance, while who within a team was eligible to receive bonuses did not in isolation appear to influence performance. The cluster analysis showed what combinations of design features were associated with better performance. The PMAQ score in the 'large bonus/many workers/high-frequency' cluster was 8.44 points higher than the 'no bonus' cluster, equivalent to a difference of 21.7% in the mean PMAQ score. Evidence from our study shows how design features can potentially influence health provider performance, informing the design of more effective P4P schemes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research objectives: The purpose of the article is to complement the existing scientifically based narratives about the origin of the stone mausoleums in the Bulgar ulus of the Golden Horde. Research materials: In the territory of the Volga-Ural region, to varying degrees of preservation, we have the medieval mausoleums in the city of Bolgar (Khan’s tomb, Eas­tern and Northern mausoleums). Located in the territory of the Chishminsky district of Bashkortostan, we have the Keshene mausoleum (currently called the Tura Khan mausoleum) and mausoleum of Husain Bek. The sources for this analysis were architecture and construction techniques, drawings of plans and sections of buildings, materials from archaeological excavations, and descriptions from scientific expeditions of the 19th century. Research results and scientific novelty: A reliable and significant source in the study is the architecture of the Golden Horde mausoleums in the territory of the city of Bolgar and the periphery of the state that is now the territory of the Chishminsky district of Bashkortostan. The specific features of the architectural appearance of the mausoleum buildings and the influence of regional schools of Muslim monumental architecture are revealed. Comparative analogies of the architecture of buildings make it possible to outline the problem of the origin of the Chishma mausoleums and draw a conclusion about the common style and traditions of Bulgarian Golden Horde architecture over the vast territory of the Volga-Ural region.

Introduction: This research aimed to assess housing design consideration features and architects’ perceptions of their effectiveness in malaria prevention. Previous studies have highlighted various architectural design elements that can reduce mosquito entry into homes, thus contributing to malaria prevention. This study aims to build on these insights by evaluating specific design features and gathering professional opinions on their effectiveness.Methods: The methodological approach adopted was quantitative, with data collected using a structured questionnaire containing closed-ended questions and a checklist. The observation checklist was used to ascertain mosquito entry reduction features incorporated in 208 systematically selected houses in Garneton East, Kitwe, Zambia. Additionally, a structured questionnaire containing fourteen key design features identified from the literature was administered to 76 architects purposively sampled to establish their perceptions of the effectiveness of these design factors in malaria prevention. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis.Results: The findings revealed that most houses needed to incorporate design features to reduce mosquito entry. The common features incorporated were ceilings (86.80%), screened air ventilation (59.80%), and window screens (54.40%). The use of window and door screens, as well as mosquito-repellent paint, were perceived as the most effective measures by the architects.Discussion: The results suggest a keen awareness among architects regarding the efficacy of certain design features in malaria prevention. Despite this awareness, the implementation of these features in actual housing designs needs to be improved. This indicates a need for greater effort and adaptation in building regulations to promote the use of mosquito entry reduction features. Enhancing housing designs with these features can significantly reduce malaria morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is recommended that building regulations be updated to support and encourage the incorporation of mosquito entry reduction features in housing designs.

Community and citizen science in online settings could be seen as a means for young people to engage with and contribute to authentic science. Yet, there is a limited understanding of who takes part in citizen science among young people, what they learn, and through which processes, particularly in online settings. In this exploratory study, we analysed 34 in-depth interviews and log files of young people aged 11-19 years old who took part in citizen science projects, hosted on the Zooniverse platform. Data analysis suggested that participation in online citizen science can bring environmental science learning benefits to young people, with some participants reporting evidence of agency with science, highlighted by taking action to do science in another context. Many participating youth exhibited substantial previous science experiences that helped them to take part and learn from citizen science projects. Considering findings from this study, we present a first working framework of how environmental science learning is enabled or hindered by certain types of participation, as a means to guide the design of online citizen science for young people. We recommend that the future project design, publicity and recruitment in online citizen science activities explicitly target the needs and interests of young people with diverse characteristics and competencies to truly open science to all.

Objective: This study examines the impact of ambulatory waiting room characteristics on patients' emotional states and investigates whether these states are universally experienced or influenced by social and cultural factors among women aged 18–35 from the three largest demographic groups in the United States: Black, Hispanic/Latina, and White. Background: Patients typically spend more time waiting for routine medical appointments than receiving care, and evidence suggests that waiting can reinforces power dynamics that benefit privileged groups, leading to different experiences for minority women seeking preventative care. Still, literature addressing the impact of waiting areas is largely limited to universal measures, and little is known about how different ethnic/race groups respond to waiting spaces. Methods: This inquiry used a questionnaire assessing 15 waiting room characteristics and testing four variables (furniture arrangement, room-scale, color saturation, and quantity of positive distractions) in a 2 × 3 quasiexperiment using a fractional randomized block design with 24 waiting room images. Findings: Responses from 1,114 participants revealed mutual preferences for sociopetal seating, positive distractions, neutral colors, and welcoming and calming environments. Yet, Black participants indicated significantly greater importance in seeing ethnically/racially similar patients and healthcare providers and strategies that promote transparency, including image-based provider directories and views into the clinic. Conclusion: By investigating the impact of the waiting room environment on patient affect and comparing perceptions across three demographic groups of women, this study offers insights into potential strategies for improving access to preventative care services by creating more welcoming ambulatory care waiting environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizational change, influenced by such factors as economics, information and communications technologies (ICTs), and users' wellbeing, is essential for organizational effectiveness, productivity, and sustainability. Thus, there has been a call for urgent changes in workplace design features to respond to future change. This study is concerned with defining the level of change in design features that is needed in existing Saudi governmental workplaces to cope with future visions of sustainability, as well as controlling the cost of such redesigning. It is hypothesized that future challenges related to economics, ICTs, and users' wellbeing would have a significant impact on the need to change existing workplace design features. Administrator workplaces in three buildings of Saudi organizations and their representative economic, ICT, and wellbeing trends were considered (n = 104, 95, 96). The average level of change in design features in each building was observed and reported. The most changed design features in buildings affected by economic, ICT, and wellbeing trends were minimizing of luxury workplaces, minimizing storage space, and improving thermal/lighting conditions, respectively. However, the most changed design features that were common to all three buildings were spatial and furniture layouts and minimizing storage space. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Justification of fusion reactor safety is impossible without multiphysics codes that make it possible to model many coupled physical and chemical phenomena. Currently, multimodule integral codes for modeling fusion reactors are actively developed abroad, but there are no such codes in Russia. In this article, the requirements for the EUCLID-F integral code, its modular structure, and the list of modeled phenomena are formulated. The code is developed at the Nuclear Safety Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences in order to analyze accidents at fusion reactors with magnetic plasma confinement. The design features, hazards, and emergency modes of fusion reactors are briefly described, and a comparison of the EUCLID-F code with foreign counterparts is given. In addition, the requirements for the unified database and high-fidelity codes necessary for development and performance of calculations by the integral code are formulated. Taking into account the described requirements when developing the integral code will make it possible to use it for analyzing the majority of design and beyond design basis accident scenarios. The code developed in accordance with the above requirements will significantly surpass foreign counterparts in terms of the number and variety of calculation modules and simulated phenomena. The availability of this code in Russia will significantly contribute to the development of fusion technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to solve the problem that a large number of low-value and easy-to-consume graphic designs consume the human and financial resources of the society and also waste the inherent value of design resources, by dividing the layers of pixels, elements, relations, planes and applications, this article defines the corresponding feature representations and studies related methods for quantifying geometric features, perceptual features and style features. The content includes the extraction method of element colour, the calculation method of layout-aware feature and colour-match-aware feature, and the pairwise comparison method of style feature. The experimental results show that the method proposed in this article has lower complexity and is significantly better than other algorithms. Comparing the method proposed in this article with other methods, the average time of this algorithm is 2.6 s under the condition of guaranteed images. The study of the design feature-driven graphic image style calculation method is not only of great significance for solving repeated design problems but also provides a basis and reference for the future development of intelligent design.

The article studies the dependences of active power losses in contacts and contact systems of circuit breakers, contactors and magnetic starters on the main parameters of electrical equipment. Models of functional dependences of active power losses on nominal current for low-voltage switching devices of some manufacturers are developed. Approximation functions of these characteristics have been compiled and the value of determination coefficient of the obtained functions of active losses and approximation error have been calculated. Graphical dependences of the investigated parameters of low-voltage equipment are presented.

The purpose of this study was to investigate key design features and maintenance practices of isolation gowns which should be improved for ensuring healthcare workers' (HCWs') safety and protection, integrating two theoretical models – personal protective clothing on worker performance and clothing comfort. Using a survey research design, an online survey was employed with a convenience sample of 153 US HCWs. The results presented the need for isolation gown design improvement within donning and doffing, comfort, body coverage, fit and sizing. It showcases interrelationships among isolation gown properties, HCWs' task requirements, environmental conditions and their characteristics, and how comfort can be achieved while interacting among HCWs, isolation gown and the environment for better work performance and safety. This study provides critical insights into the novel isolation gown design and development by considering more of its utilitarian, task-related features to ensure HCWs' safety and protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pathway design features in urban parks are vital in facilitating leisure walking and maintaining a minimal rate of physical activity, hence enhancing public health. This study investigated the relationships between the design aspects of Cautin Park, Chile's largest urban park in the Araucania Region, and the tendency for walking, as well as walking behavior. The objectives were investigated using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Several design elements were discovered to be connected to walking tendency and walking behavior in this urban park, including path paving, pathway width, (dense) trees, green spaces and vegetation, connectivity with programs and activity zones, tranquility along pathways, more shade along pathways, pathways that provide better connectivity between different parts of the park, and the presence of benches along the urban park's pathways. These insights could be used by urban planners and designers in the future planning of urban parks in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood carving interstitial screen is China's traditional interior decoration supplies, evolved from the screen, developed to the Ming and Qing dynasty flourishing. Hou's wood carving interstitial screen is a representative of the intangible cultural heritage project in Hexi District, Tianjin, influenced by the furniture culture of the Ming and Qing dynasties, passed down for four generations, and has local characteristics of Tianjin. The technical characteristics of Hou's wood carving interstitial screen, such as shape, decoration, function, structure and production, were recorded and sorted, the problems encountered in the inheritance of wood carving interstitial screen were analyzed, and targeted innovative thinking and design practices were made, aiming to provide an important reference for the inheritance and development of traditional wood carving interstitial screen technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gardening is a common leisure pursuit for many older individuals, and previous research found that gardening activities provide numerous health benefits. Many hazardous situations can occur when gardening, and experts have suggested that older gardeners wear protective gardening garments when gardening. However, there is a lack of research about the important features that must be considered for gardening garments, particularly for older individuals. Thus, this study investigated important design factors for developing gardening garments for older adults, including their design preferences for such garments. This study focused on the population who were born before the year 1960, as this age cohort has begun retiring and shows significant buying power. Indepth interviews and surveys were conducted to achieve the research purpose. The findings from this study will offer insights for designers who seek to better understand and market to this age cohort by designing relevant garments for their gardening activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Networked computers can potentially support classrooms to be more interactive. It can help students share representations amongst themselves and work together on a shared virtual activity space. In research on the role of shared screens or shared virtual workspace in learning settings, there has been less attention paid to contexts where learners are co-located. This paper looks at the impact of the shared screen in a computational game environment on mathematics learning and practices and the construction of learners' emotions and social status in classroom interactions. We designed two versions of a simple arithmetic game: a solo version in which the student played the game alone and a multi-player version in which the screen was shared, and the players could see the arithmetic moves of the other players. We implemented these two versions of the game in a 4th-grade classroom in a suburban school in a large metropolis in India. Classroom sessions were video recorded, computer logs were collected, and field notes were taken. Focus group sessions were held with the students. We coded a portion of the data to get at patterns of classroom interactions. Then we drew on qualitative video analysis tools to analyze specific episodes to understand the fine timescale dynamics of dominant interaction patterns in each setting. Our analysis shows that the shared screen served as a shared memory device, keeping a record of all the students' posts, and was entangled in the moment-to-moment dynamics of self- and peer- assessments of arithmetic. These findings suggest that thoughtful integration of networked digital tools in computer-supported learning environments can increase student–student interactions and support disciplinary learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of HMD: Praxis der Wirtschaftsinformatik is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Additive manufacturing enables the production of lightweight and resilient components with extensive design freedom. In the low-cost sector, material extrusion (e.g. Fused Deposition Modeling - FDM) has been the main method used to date. Thus, robust 3D printers and inexpensive 3D materials (polymer filaments) can be used. However, the printing times for FDM are very long and the quality of the dimensions and surfaces is limited. Recently, new processes from the field of Vat polymerization have entered the market. For example, masked stereolithography (mSLA) offers a significant improvement in component quality and build speed through the use of resins and large-area curing at still reasonable costs. Currently, there is only limited knowledge available on the optimal design of components using this young process. In this contribution, design guidelines are developed to determine the possibilities and limitations of mSLA from a design point of view. For this purpose, a number of test geometries are designed and investigated to obtain systematic insights into important design features, such as wall thickness, grooves and holes. In addition, typical problems in additive manufacturing, such as the design of overhangs and fits or the hollowing of components, are investigated. The evaluation of practical 3D printing tests thus provides important parameters that can be transferred to design guidelines of components for additive manufacturing using mSLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to expand upon the understanding of the multifaceted usability issues older adults encounter when using intelligent products. This was achieved by synthesizing extant research findings to come to an understanding of why usability issues still exist in intelligent products for older adults in China, even when appropriate design features are incorporated. This review was conducted by searching the literature on the Scopus, Springer, ScienceDirect, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases as well as Google Scholar using the terms "older adults in China", "intelligent products", and "usability." Forty-three studies from between 2007 and 2022 were included in the review. The results reveal three salient aspects directly related to the usability issues of intelligent products experienced by older adults in China: (1) the usefulness of the product; (2) the ease of use of the product; and (3) the impact of the policy. The first two impact the effectiveness of the use of intelligent products, while the lack of policy intervention in the management system of intelligent products results in product clutter. This review provides insights for designers by proposing a conceptual framework for an intelligent product service platform for older adults, which will help researchers and research teams better understand the usability issues according to older adults' feedback on intelligent products. We suggest a unified standard for intelligent product management in the future that is compatible across systems and reduces older adults' learning stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the morphological design features of the hospital physical facilities in Southwest, Nigeria. A lot of research work has evaluated different aspects of hospital design features while only a few of the previous studies included the morphological design characteristics of the physical facilities in their conceptual framework. As a result, hospital facilities are poor at meeting the needs and expectations of users due to the limited studies which have not been clearly understood and adequately carried out within the research circle. This is suggested in this study to provide better solutions to the problem. This study adopted a primary method of data collection which involved the use of 557 structured questionnaires randomly administered to three categories of users. The semi-structured interviews (SSI) were purposely administered to users to support the information obtained through the questionnaires. Through purposive sampling, buildings were restricted to four (4) buildings or departments at the Federal Universities Teaching Hospitals (FUTH) in southwest, Nigeria. Data obtained was analyzed at different levels and morphological design characteristics were assessed to be very adequate while other interior spaces need urgent attention. The study helps hospital policymakers in making appropriate decisions that can improve the healthcare environment in Nigeria.

Organizational change, influenced by such factors as economics, information and communications technologies (ICTs), and users’ wellbeing, is essential for organizational effectiveness, productivity, and sustainability. Thus, there has been a call for urgent changes in workplace design features to respond to future change. This study is concerned with defining the level of change in design features that is needed in existing Saudi governmental workplaces to cope with future visions of sustainability, as well as controlling the cost of such redesigning. It is hypothesized that future challenges related to economics, ICTs, and users’ wellbeing would have a significant impact on the need to change existing workplace design features. Administrator workplaces in three buildings of Saudi organizations and their representative economic, ICT, and wellbeing trends were considered (n = 104, 95, 96). The average level of change in design features in each building was observed and reported. The most changed design features in buildings affected by economic, ICT, and wellbeing trends were minimizing of luxury workplaces, minimizing storage space, and improving thermal/lighting conditions, respectively. However, the most changed design features that were common to all three buildings were spatial and furniture layouts and minimizing storage space.

The design of electronic cigarette (EC) atomizing units has evolved since their introduction over 10 years ago. The purpose of this study was to evaluate atomizer design in ECs sold between 2011-2017. Atomizers from 34 brands representing three generations of ECs were dissected and photographed using a stereoscopic microscope. Five distinct atomizer design categories were identified in first generation products (cig-a-like/cartomizer) and three categories were found in the third generation. Atomizers in most cig-a-like ECs contained a filament, thick wire, wire joints, air-tube, wick, sheath, and fibers, while some later models lacked some of these components. Over time design changes included an increase in atomizer size; removal of solder joints between wires; removal of Polyfil fibers; and removal of the microprocessor from Vuse. In second and third generation ECs, the reservoirs and batteries were larger, and the atomizing units generally lacked a thick wire, fibers, and sheath. These data contribute to an understanding of atomizer design and show that there is no single design for ECs, which are continually evolving. The design of the atomizer is particularly important as it affects the performance of ECs and what transfers into the aerosol.

The article highlights the problematic issues related to the appearance of a new specialized GSM-R modem TRC-5RME (ext)* H on the market, the serial production of which was launched in 2020 by the German company TRIORAIL, which is one of the leaders in the European market for the production of specialized equipment for railway rolling stock. Would it be rational to use the new TRC-5rme (ext)* H modem to solve the tasks assigned to the rolling stock communication equipment? What major changeswill already existing solutions that have been used for a long time on the railway transport of different countries undergo? To identify the factors contributing to the adoption of such a decision, a comparative analysis of the characteristics of modems will be carried out. Special attention will be paid to the speed of information transmission and indicators of the reliability of the communication channel. The design features of the modem of the new series will also be analyzed, a preliminary assessment of the integration of the TRC-5rme (ext) H modem into existing communication equipment manufactured by enterprises will be carried out.

This study examined bias reduction in the eight nonequivalent comparison group designs (NECGDs) that result from combining (a) choice of a local versus non-local comparison group, and analytic use or not of (b) a pretest measure of the study outcome and (c) a rich set of other covariates. Bias was estimated as the difference in causal estimate between each NECGD and a carefully appraised randomized experiment with the same intervention, outcome, and estimand. Results indicated that bias generally declined with the number of design elements in an NECGD, that combining all three sufficed to eliminate bias but was not necessary for it, and that this pattern of results was largely replicated across five different replication factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The metaverse, as a more advanced form of virtual reality, has great potential for education because of its unique affordances for enhancing immersion, interaction, and presence. However, because its development is still in its infancy, there are few empirical studies on the application of metaverse in education. There is insufficient empirical evidence from the literature regarding its effectiveness and valued design features, as well as its advantages and disadvantages as a technology-enhanced learning environment. Utilizing the case study method, this study designed and implemented a 40-minute psychology course with 31 undergraduate students in the metaverse using the Virbela platform and collected both quantitative and qualitative data to empirically explore the benefits and challenges of the educational metaverse. The quantitative results showed that the students reported good learning experiences in the metaverse, but their learning outcomes were unsatisfactory, just over the passing level. The qualitative results revealed useful design features and common technical challenges of the educational metaverse. Based on the results, several implications for designing and developing effective courses in the educational metaverse were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the design, development and commercialization of nuclear power Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). Actual SMR designs cover the full spectrum of nuclear reactor technologies, including water-, gas-, liquid-metal-, and molten-salt-cooled. Despite physical and technological differences, SMRs share some relevant design features, such as small size, modularity, inherent and passive safety systems. These features are expected to enhance availability, recoverability, promptness and robustness, thereby contributing to the resilience of power supply. Thanks to the peculiar design features of SMRs, they are likely to satisfy a number of Functional Requirements (FRs) for this objective, namely: (i) low vulnerability to external hazards; (ii) natural circulation of primary coolant; (iii) prompt, unlimited and independent core cooling under shutdown conditions; (iv) shutdown avoidance in response to variations of the offsite power supply quality and electrical load; (v) island mode operation; (vi) robust load-following; (vii) independent, self-cranking start. These make advanced Nuclear Power Plants (aNPPs) comprised of SMRs perfect candidates to withstand a broader range of natural disruptions and to recover faster from them, compared to conventional Nuclear Power Plants (cNPPs), thus rendering them a major potential asset for guaranteeing resilience and security of power supply. The review focuses on Natural Technological (NaTech) events that impact a typical Integrated Energy System (IESs) within which SMRs are embedded: IESs are, indeed, being developed to integrate different power generation plants with gas facilities, through gas and electricity infrastructures, because they are expected to bring increased security and resilience of power supply, as shown in the qualitative case study presented.

Online consumers perceived performing an online transaction as risky. The inability to trust the website is one reason why online consumers are reluctant to perform an online transaction. In this research study, 46 design features are examined to identify features that are able to increase the value of trust. Eighty-nine individuals participated in this research study. Participants completed one questionnaire which was divided into four parts. The questionnaire collected information on demographics, personality traits, trust and website design features. Data were analysed using quantitative statistical methods. A pilot test was conducted prior to the main experiment. Results indicate there are sixteen design features that have the ability to increase the level of trust amongst participants with the neuroticism trait. Fourteen design features had the ability to increase the level of trust amongst participants with the conscientiousness personality trait. E-commerce website designers could use these design features to increase the online consumer’s perception of trust on e-commerce websites.

• Experimental study of a solar simulator for investigation of photovoltaic modules. • Characterization of a large-scale solar simulator according to ASTM/IEC standards. • Evaluation of design features and components for a large-scale solar simulator. • Analysis of light source, energy source, and mounting structure. • Analysis of reflector geometry, lamp height, and distance between reflectors. The evaluation of photovoltaic devices must be carried out in laboratories under stable conditions of irradiance, spatial uniformity, and spectral mismatch. Large-scale solar simulators are a reliable option for this. Various designs of simulators have been reported; however, more needs to be deepened in their study. In this work, an experimental investigation was conducted in order to explore the relationship between spatial non-uniformity, temporal instability, and the design features and components of a large-scale solar simulator based on metal halide lamps. The evaluation was based on the standard performance requirements of solar simulators, and various parameters were considered, including the geometry of the reflectors, the distance between reflectors, and the height of the lamps. In addition, the forces and deformations of the complete structure of the simulator, as well as the effects of the lamp orientation and the type of electrical supply, were analyzed. Based on the evaluation results of the design features and components, a simulator solar with an illuminated area of 1.7 m x 1.8 m was designed, constructed, and experimentally tested. A simulator class C was achieved, covering an area of 0.50 m x 0.50 m. The performance of the solar simulator was validated by experimental tests performed on commercial photovoltaic modules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main Russian and foreign manufacturers of low-voltage electrical devices – circuit breakers, fuses, magnetic starters, knife switches and packet switches are presented. The data of experiments for determining the resistance values of contact groups of low-voltage switching equipment are considered. The design features of the devices that determine the value of the resistances of the power circuits of low-voltage equipment are investigated and a classification is proposed depending on the design elements of the devices. A methodological approach and an algorithm for experiments and detailed analysis of the contact groups of devices are given. Experimental schemes for the study of contact groups are proposed. The data of the conducted experiments on the study of contact groups and the resistance values as a function of the flowing currents are shown. During the experiments it is revealed that the value of the resistance of the contacts changes depending on the value, type and time of exposure to current within +/–5 %. The laws that characterize the ratio of the resistance values of the structural components of devices (contact systems, thermal relay, coil of the maximum relay) have been revealed and defined. Empirical expressions and graphical dependences of the resistances of contacts and contact systems are obtained as a function of the magnitude of the rated currents of low-voltage contact equipment. The minimum sample size of the number of devices during experimental research is determined, sufficient to calculate the mathematical expectation of the resistances of the contact connections of the devices with a given accuracy. As a result of experimental studies, it is revealed that the resistance value of contacts and contact joints can increase during operation by 2–2.5 times. The established dependences of the change in contact resistance can be used to predict the technical state of electrical installations of intrashop low-voltage networks, to clarify the amount of electricity losses in shop networks up to 1 kV, and can also be used as an additional regulation for maintenance and scheduled preventive maintenance.

Neo-Chinese style is popular nowadays and it is wildly used in rural landscape, with only few theories. Under the background of rural revitalization, this paper discussed practice types and design features of neo-Chinese style in rural landscape. Some typical and famous villages of Ningbo, Quzhou and Lishui cities in Zhejiang Province were chosen as cases in this paper. It is committed to providing some theories, inheriting rural culture and promoting rural revitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated how app design features in educational apps affect app usability (i.e. effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction during use) and subsequent learning for Dutch children aged 4–5 years old. Guided by the Capacity Model 2.0 and Cognitive Load Theory, a 2 × 2 between-subjects experiment was conducted with 128 children (Mage = 4.73, SD =.40) to investigate how tactile (i.e. haptic movement: dragging versus tapping) and visual (i.e. hotspots: salient (moving) versus non-salient (non-moving) features in an educational app (M = 4.97 minutes game play) influence app usability and children's learning – namely, receptive vocabulary acquisition. Results lent partial support to study hypotheses. Although children learned nearly five new Dutch words after playing the seeking game only once, the manipulated features did not explain this acquisition. In line with expectations, features did influence usability with salient hotspots proving to be a key predictor of usability. Implications are discussed. Prior State of Knowledge: Although there is much speculation regarding the impact of app design on the usability of and subsequent learning from children's educational apps, empirical knowledge on this topic is lacking. Novel Contributions: This study is the first empirical investigation to combine predictions of the Capacity Model and Cognitive Load Theory to investigate how educational app design features (haptic and visual) predict app usability and subsequent learning for preschool-aged children. Practical Implications: For designers, results suggest that the thoughtful use of salient hotspots can lead to improved app usability. But, as demonstrated in the study, usability is not a guarantee for learning. It is crucial to consider how to use such features to support learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This meta-analysis reviews robot design features of interface, controller, and appearance and statistically summarizes their effect on successful human–robot interaction (HRI) at work (that is, task performance, cooperation, satisfaction, acceptance, trust, mental workload, and situation awareness). Background: Robots are becoming an integral part of many workplaces. As interactions with employees increase, ensuring success becomes ever more vital. Even though many studies investigated robot design features, an overview on general and specific effects is missing. Method: Systematic selection of literature and structured coding led to 81 included experimental studies containing 380 effect sizes. Mean effects were calculated using a three-level meta-analysis to handle dependencies of multiple effect sizes in one study. Results: Sufficient feedback through the interface, clear visibility of affordances, and adaptability and autonomy of the controller significantly affect successful HRI, whereas appearance does not. The features of the interface and controller affect performance and satisfaction but do not affect situation awareness and trust. Specific effects of adaptability on cooperation and acceptance, as well as autonomy on mental workload, could be shown. Conclusion: Robot design at work needs to cover multiple features of interface and controller to achieve successful HRI that covers not only performance and satisfaction, but also cooperation, acceptance, and mental workload. More empirical research is needed to investigate mediating mechanisms and underrepresented design features' effects. Application: Robot designers should carefully choose design features to balance specific effects and implementation costs with regard to tasks, work design aims, and employee needs in the specific work context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]