Browsing by Issue Date, starting with "2024-10-14"
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- Cross-cultural navigation in european workplaces : how do young latin american professionals in Spain and UK perceive and navigate cultural differences?Publication . Diaz, Daniela Montoya; Rajsingh, PeterIn a globalized workforce, cultural differences present both opportunities and challenges for professionals, particularly young Latin American expatriates in Europe. This thesis investigates how these professionals navigate workplace dynamics in Spain and the United Kingdom, with a focus on hierarchical structures, leadership styles, and communication norms. Using Erin Meyer’s Cultural Profile Assessment and semi-structured interviews with ten professionals, the study identifies significant cultural gaps between the participants' home countries and their host countries. The research reveals that while Spain shares more similarities with Latin American workplace cultures, the UK presents stark differences, particularly in communication styles, leadership expectations, and trust-building processes. Latin American professionals working in the UK struggle with the transition to low-context communication and egalitarian leadership, whereas in Spain, they find a blend of hierarchical respect and collaboration. This study contributes to the academic discourse on cross-cultural management and provides practical recommendations for multinational organizations to enhance cultural integration strategies, thereby promoting more inclusive and productive work environments.
- Deconstructing masculine stereotypes : the impact of gender-neutral advertising on masculine buying behavior in the realm of fashion, considering intrinsic factorsPublication . Becker, Eyleen Chiara; Colaço, VeraThe criticism of masculine stereotypes in fashion advertising is increasing as traditional perspectives on masculinity are reinforced. This has adverse effects on men, such as impeding individual expression. Therefore, creating non-stereotypical advertising strategies for masculine consumers is essential. Consequently, this dissertation examines gender-neutrality as an approach to non-stereotypical advertising and aims to ascertain the influence of the type of gender-oriented advertisement (stereotypical-masculine vs. gender-neutral) on masculine buying behaviors. Additionally, it examines intrinsic factors that are relevant in masculine consumer behavior, such as the moderating role of need for uniqueness and mediating role of self-expression. The results derived from an experimental study indicate a positive impact of gender-neutral advertisements on masculine buying behaviors compared to stereotypical masculine advertisements. Findings suggest that the high need for uniqueness increases masculine buying behaviors for gender-neutral advertisements when traditional gender role attitudes are controlled. Mediation findings show that self-expression indirectly influences the relation between the type of gender-oriented advertisements and masculine buying behaviors. This dissertation yields insightful perspectives on masculine consumer behavior in fashion and adds to existing literature about stereotypical-masculine and gender-neutral advertising. Furthermore, it provides fashion brand managers with recommendations on successfully implementing gender-neutral approaches in their marketing strategies to achieve positive brand-related effects and position themselves as progressive and diverse.
- Lab-grown vs. natural diamonds : a moderated mediation analysis of how brand type and perceived scarcity influence consumer purchase intentionsPublication . Habsburg-Lothringen, Maria Teresa Beatrice Nicole Balthasara; Munz, Kurt PaulThis study explored the influence of diamond origin (lab-grown vs. natural) on purchase intention through perceived scarcity, with brand type as a moderator. Given the recent rising prominence of lab-grown diamonds in the jewelry market, this research investigates how perceived scarcity influences purchase intention and whether luxury brands can increase the perceived scarcity of lab-grown diamonds. A 2x2 factorial design between-subjects experiment was conducted, involving 253 participants who were randomly presented with one of four scenarios regarding diamond origin (lab-grown vs. natural) and brand type (luxury vs. no-name). The study employed a moderated mediation analysis using Hayes9 PROCESS macro (Model 7). The findings show that diamond origin is directly associated with perceived scarcity, proving that lab-grown diamonds are perceived as less scarce than natural diamonds. Furthermore, perceived scarcity is positively associated with purchase intention, confirming that scarcity plays a crucial role in driving consumer demand. However, the moderating effect of brand type was found to be non-significant, suggesting that brand prestige does not significantly influence the relationship between diamond origin and perceived scarcity or purchase intention. These findings contribute to the understanding of how lab-grown diamonds are perceived in the luxury jewelry market and provide valuable insights for marketers looking to position sustainable alternatives within traditional luxury frameworks.
- Wearables, nearables e apps no diagnóstico dos distúrbios de sono : umbrella reviewPublication . Fernandes, Leandro Rodrigues; Veiga, Nélio Jorge; Ramos, Susana Isabel FalardoIntrodução: O sono desempenha um papel crucial na manutenção da saúde cognitiva, cardiovascular, imunológica e metabólica. Ele é composto por diferentes estágios, incluindo o sono de ondas lentas (NREM) e o sono REM, cada um com características fisiológicas distintas e funções específicas. A Apneia Obstrutiva do Sono, um dos distúrbios respiratórios do sono mais prevalentes, está associada a diversas comorbidades graves, como doenças cardiovasculares, diabetes tipo II e disfunções cognitivas. A polissonografia é o método padrão-ouro para o diagnóstico da AOS, mas apresenta limitações, como o elevado custo e desconforto para o paciente. Em resposta, a medicina está migrando para métodos de diagnóstico mais acessíveis e menos invasivos, incluindo o uso de wearables, nearables e apps. Estes dispositivos, oferecem uma alternativa promissora para o diagnóstico da AOS, fornecendo dados sobre os padrões de sono e sinais vitais de forma contínua e em ambientes domésticos. A adoção de tais tecnologias pode facilitar o diagnóstico precoce da AOS, contribuindo para intervenções mais eficazes e melhorando a qualidade de vida dos pacientes. Objetivos: O objetivo do presente estudo, foi realizar uma revisão sistemática, do tipo umbrella review, para avaliar se os dispositivos domésticos (wearables, nearables e apps) podem ser uma alternativa à polissonografia. Materiais e métodos: A literatura considerada foi baseada nas diretrizes PRISMA com o intuito de responder à seguinte questão construída no formato PICO: “Pode a tecnologia de consumo doméstico ser uma alternativa fiável e eficaz no rastreio/diagnóstico de distúrbios do sono (AOS) para a identificação da população de risco como alternativa aos métodos convencionais tais como a PSG nível I e II?”. Os motores de busca utilizados foram a PubMed, Scopus e Cochrane Após os critérios de elegibilidade, de inclusão e exclusão, foi feita uma análise descritiva com os dados extraídos. A qualidade metodológica foi avaliada através da ferramenta AMSTAR-2, enquanto o risco de viés foi avaliado através do ROBIS. Resultados: No total foram incluídas 6 revisões sistemáticas. Os artigos que constituem esta umbrela review exploram tecnologias emergentes, como aplicações para smartphones, dispositivos domésticos e inteligência artificial, no diagnóstico da apneia obstrutiva do sono. Embora algumas dessas tecnologias mostrem potencial significativo, com vantagens como maior conforto e acessibilidade, elas ainda apresentam limitações em termos de sensibilidade e especificidade, não substituindo completamente a polissonografia. A maioria dos estudos seguiu protocolos rigorosos, mas há necessidade de validação clínica adicional. No geral, as novas ferramentas têm o potencial de complementar, e eventualmente substituir, os métodos tradicionais, mas requerem desenvolvimento contínuo e validação mais ampla. Conclusão: A análise revela que as tecnologias emergentes, como smartphones, dispositivos domésticos e inteligência artificial, têm o potencial de transformar o diagnóstico da apneia obstrutiva do sono. No entanto, esses avanços enfrentam desafios significativos, incluindo a necessidade de validação clínica rigorosa, padronização de métodos, e integração segura na prática clínica. A colaboração multidisciplinar e a aceitação por profissionais de saúde e pacientes são cruciais. Apesar dos desafios, essas inovações podem, no futuro, complementar ou até substituir a polissonografia, oferecendo abordagens mais acessíveis e personalizadas para o manejo da apneia obstrutiva do sono.
- Cybersecurity and the adoption of self-driving carsPublication . Braz, Pedro dos Santos; Forterre, Damien; Rajsingh, Peter V.This dissertation investigates the impact of cybersecurity concerns on adopting autonomous vehicles (AVs). As AV technology becomes increasingly prevalent in modern transportation systems, it faces potential cybersecurity threats such as data breaches, remote hijacking, and unauthorized data access. While these issues pose challenges, they are not inevitable barriers to consumer acceptance and widespread adoption. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from consumer surveys of a sample of 239 respondents with qualitative insights from 12 expert interviews from the automotive and cybersecurity sectors to assess public perceptions and the effectiveness of current cybersecurity measures. The results show that most consumers do not unthinkingly oppose the adoption of AVs despite the significant cybersecurity risks as long as robust cybersecurity protections are implemented. The research underscores the importance of transparent communication and the development of comprehensive regulatory frameworks to build and sustain public trust. Proactive cybersecurity strategies, continuous technological updates, and solid regulatory oversight can effectively mitigate risks and encourage the adoption of AV technologies. This study offers insights into the dynamic interplay between technology adoption, public perception, and cybersecurity, providing strategic guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders to navigate these challenges.
- Additive manufacturing as a driver of change in the (plastics) manufacturing industryPublication . Telgenkämper, Valentin; Rajsingh, Peter V.This thesis investigates the role of 3D printing, additive manufacturing (AM), as a driver for change within the plastics and broader manufacturing industries. Employing a multi-methodological approach, comprising a literature review, expert interviews, and an industry survey, the research evaluates the impact of AM on manufacturing. The findings indicate that, despite AM's significant potential, its current impact is largely confined to niche applications, such as prototyping and low-volume production. While AM excels at producing intricate geometries and accelerating R&D, it is not yet a viable alternative to conventional manufacturing for mass production due to challenges in scalability, cost, and product quality. These results challenge the idea that AM is a disruptive force in manufacturing. Instead, it aligns with sustaining innovations, enhancing processes without majorly altering systems. Companies should adopt AM strategically, focusing on areas like prototyping. The study also highlights key adoption barriers, particularly a lack of knowledge and training. The thesis concludes by discussing the study9s limitations and proposing avenues for future research. It underscores the need for longitudinal studies to monitor AM's ongoing development and its potential integration with emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, which could eventually shift AM9s role toward a more disruptive innovation within the manufacturing industry.
- Optimizing the dissolved oxygen requirements for effective pollutant removal from coastal aquaculture wastewater aiming at water recyclingPublication . Oliveira, Ana T.; Castro, Paula M. L.; Amorim, Catarina L.Wastewater treatment presents a pressing global challenge, emphasizing the urgent need for more sustainable solutions. In the pursuit of energy and carbon neutrality, microalgal-bacterial granular sludge (MBGS) systems have emerged as a promising alternative, leveraging the symbiotic relationship between microalgae and bacteria within granules in terms of gas exchange. MBGS systems offer efficient treatment but also hold the promise for substantial energy savings and greenhouse gas emissions reduction. The present study aimed to ascertain on the dissolved oxygen threshold required for efficient pollutants removal from coastal aquaculture aiming at water recycling in industrial settings.
- Optimizing the dissolved oxygen requirements for effective pollutant removal from coastal aquaculture wastewater aiming at water recyclingPublication . Oliveira, Ana T.; Castro, Paula M. L.; Amorim, Catarina L.Wastewater treatment presents a pressing global challenge, emphasizing the urgent need for more sustainable solutions. In the pursuit of energy and carbon neutrality, microalgal-bacterial granular sludge (MBGS) systems have emerged as a promising alternative, leveraging the symbiotic relationship between microalgae and bacteria within granules in terms of gas exchange. MBGS systems offer efficient treatment but also hold the promise for substantial energy savings and greenhouse gas emissions reduction.The present study aimed to ascertain on the dissolved oxygen threshold required for efficient pollutants removal from coastal aquaculture aiming at water recycling in industrial settings. To accomplish this, a MBGS system was applied for the treatment of aquaculture wastewater and underwent a gradual reduction in the airflow rate from 3.0 to 1.5 L min⁻¹ over 134 days. Regardless of the airflow rate, complete ammonium removal was consistently achieved, while lower airflow rates appeared to enhance nitrite and nitrate removal. The composition of treated effluents met toxicity limits for fish, enabling water reuse in aquaculture facilities. However, if the airflow rate was reduced to about 1.5 L min⁻¹, outgrowth of filamentous microorganisms started to occur on granules surface, compromising their efficient separation from the treated water.Aeration typically contributes significantly to energy consumption in wastewater treatment processes. Utilizing MBGS systems can effectively reduce aeration needs, up to a certain level, without compromising the treatment performance, thus improving the ecological footprint of the treatment process.
- Exploring FOMO effects : a study of social media impact on italian gen-Z consumersPublication . Bosco, Matilde Dal; Salmon, AndrewThis dissertation investigates the impact of social media-induced fear of missing out (FOMO) on Italian Gen Z consumers. Generation Z are digital natives who rely heavily on social media for communication and interaction. This constant connectivity exposes them to highly curated content, often leading to feelings of inadequacy and exclusion, which manifest as FOMO. The study aims to investigate the extent to which FOMO influences social media usage among this demographic, how it affects their emotional state, and its relationship with their happiness. A quantitative research design was employed, gathering data from 329 Italian Gen-Z individuals. The findings reveal that frequent social media use, driven by the anxiety of missing out, significantly impacts the emotional well-being of Gen-Z consumers. Higher levels of FOMO correlate with increased life dissatisfaction, negative self-perception, and lower happiness levels. The study also highlights that while social media provides a platform for connection, it simultaneously fosters a cycle of compulsive behavior that disrupts daily life and exacerbates stress. The dissertation offers managerial implications for businesses aiming to engage with Gen-Z consumers. By addressing the psychological drivers of FOMO, companies can enhance customer engagement, improve product development, and refine marketing strategies. Personalization, fostering a sense of competence, and promoting community are identified as key strategies to mitigate the negative effects of FOMO and build long-term customer loyalty. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of FOMO's impact on Generation Z and provides insights for businesses operating in the digital age.
- Stylish virtual tour: exploring fashion’s influence on attitude and satisfaction in VR tourismPublication . Elmashhara, Maher Georges; Blazquez, Marta; Julião, JorgePurpose: This study aims to investigate the influence of different virtual fashion styles on attitude and satisfaction within virtual reality (VR) tourism experiences. The investigation considers the mediating effect of perceived attractiveness, popularity, novelty and weirdness, as well as the moderating role of self-congruence with avatar clothing and the desire for unique products. Design/methodology/approach: This research uses a quantitative experimental approach. Initially, a three-step pilot study (N = 201) was conducted to select avatar fashion styles for the main investigation. In the primary study, participants (N = 326) engaged with one out of four fashion style conditions to select attire for their avatars and then completed a self-administered survey. Data analysis involved paired-sample t-tests, multivariate analysis of variance and Hayes’ PROCESS Models. Findings: The results show that presenting fantasy avatar fashion styles leads to a decrease in perceived attractiveness and popularity, while concurrently increasing perceptions of novelty and weirdness which in turn exert a negative influence on attitude and satisfaction with the virtual fitting room (VFR). However, these relationships change when considering the moderating role of self-congruence with avatar clothing and the desire for unique products. Practical implications: VR tourism experience providers and designers can use research findings to bolster positive attitude and enhance satisfaction with VFR; an important first step that strongly affects the rest of the VR tourist journey. Originality/value: This study contributes to tourism research by exploring the intersection of immersive technologies and virtual fashion. It emphasizes the enhancement of critical touchpoints like the VFR, moving beyond a sole focus on VR adoption, to improve the overall virtual tourist experience.