Digital Commons Network^™

The Analyst’S Hierarchy Of Needs: Grounded Design Principles For Tailored Intelligence Analysis Tools, Antonio E. Girona, James C. Peter, Wenyuan Wang, R. Jordan Crouser

Computer Science: Faculty Publications

Intelligence analysis involves gathering, analyzing, and interpreting vast amounts of information from diverse sources to generate accurate and timely insights. Tailored tools hold great promise in providing individualized support, enhancing efficiency, and facilitating the identification of crucial intelligence gaps and trends where traditional tools fail. The effectiveness of tailored tools depends on an analyst’s unique needs and motivations, as well as the broader context in which they operate. This paper describes a series of focus discovery exercises that revealed a distinct hierarchy of needs for intelligence analysts. This reflection on the balance between competing needs is of particular value in …

Mangroves Of The Warm Temperate Northwest Atlantic, Daniel A. Friess, Ena L. Suárez, Anna R. Armitage, Cheryl Doughty, Laura C. Feher, Ilka C. Feller, Alejandro Fierro, Kara R. Radabaugh, Lorae T. Simpson, William C. V Vervaeke, Carlos Zamora-Tovar

School of Earth, Environmental, & Marine Sciences Faculty Publications

The ‘Mangroves of the Warm Temperate Northwest Atlantic’ province is a regional ecosystem subgroup (level 4 unit of the IUCN Global Ecosystem Typology). It includes the marine ecoregions of Carolinian and Northern Gulf of Mexico. The biota is characterized by 3 species of mangroves: Avicennia germinans, Laguncularia racemosa, and Rhizophora mangle, and 1 mangrove associate Conocarpus erectus, though not all species are equally distributed throughout the province. Mangroves in this province cross the USA and Mexico and are quite unique, as they exist at the latitudinal range limit of the mangrove ecosystem. The majority of mangroves in this province are …

Assessing Tax Revenue Implications Of Environmental Policy: A Case Study Of China’S Channel City Policy, Yongwen Yang, Juhee Lee

School of Earth, Environmental, & Marine Sciences Faculty Publications

Recent studies suggest that while environmental policies yield positive environmental effects, they also incur costs for various entities. However, there is a gap in research regarding these policies’ financial impact from the government's perspective. To investigate the extent to which government tax revenue is affected by environmental policies, we employ the Difference-inDifferences (DID) method to estimate the impact of a regional air pollution control policy in China known as the Channel City Policy on the tax revenue of city governments. Our findings indicate that the Channel City Policy (CCP) enhances air quality by reducing PM2.5, SO2, and NOx concentrations by …

Radiation Induced Skin Fibrosis (Risf): Opportunity For Angiotensin Ii-Dependent Intervention, Patricia F. Boothe, Vidya P. Kumar, Yali Kong, Kan Wang, Howard Levinson, David Mu, Milton L. Brown

Department of Biomedical and Translational Sciences Faculty Publications

Medical procedures, such as radiation therapy, are a vital element in treating many cancers, significantly contributing to improved survival rates. However, a common long-term complication of such exposure is radiation-induced skin fibrosis (RISF), a complex condition that poses substantial physical and psychological challenges. Notably, about 50% of patients undergoing radiation therapy may achieve long-term remission, resulting in a significant number of survivors managing the aftereffects of their treatment. This article delves into the intricate relationship between RISF, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and angiotensin II (Ang II) signaling. It proposes the underlying mechanisms and examines potential treatments for mitigating skin fibrosis. …

The Metaverse, Religious Practice And Wellbeing: A Narrative Review, Justin Thomas, Mohammad Amin Kuhail, Fahad Albeyahi

All Works

The metaverse is touted as the next phase in the evolution of the Internet. This emerging digital ecosystem is widely conceptualized as a persistent matrix of interconnected multiuser, massively scaled online environments optimally experienced through immersive digital technologies such as virtual reality (VR). Much of the prognostication about the social implications of the metaverse center on secular activities. For example, retail, entertainment (gaming/concerts), and social networking. Little attention has been given to how the metaverse might impact religion. This narrative review explores contemporary research into online religious practice and the use of immersive digital technologies for religious purposes. This focus …

Dietary Knowledge And Eating Habits Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes In Lebanon, Myriam Abboud, Cyrille Nacouzi, Zeina Chahine, Angelica Atallah, Mira Hleyhel

All Works

Little is known about the dietary knowledge (DK) and eating habits (EHs) of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in Lebanon. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the DK and EH of the population with T2D and determine their associated factors. A cross-sectional survey enrolling 351 patients with T2D was carried out, using the snowball sampling technique. The survey used the UK Diabetes and Diet Questionnaire and the Dietary Knowledge questionnaire to assess participants' EH including the frequency of consumption of certain foods and their knowledge of food groups and food choices. While a higher DK index …

Optimizing Tomato Seedling Growth With Indigenous Mangrove Bacterial Inoculants And Reduced Npk Fertilization, Soumaya Tounsi-Hammami, Munawwar Ali Khan, Aroosa Zeb, Aneesa Rasheed Anwar, Naman Arora, Muhammad Naseem, Sunil Mundra

All Works

The search for ecofriendly products to reduce crop dependence on synthetic chemical fertilizers presents a new challenge. The present study aims to isolate and select efficient native PGPB that can reduce reliance on synthetic NPK fertilizers. A total of 41 bacteria were isolated from the sediment and roots of mangrove trees (Avicennia marina) and assessed for their PGP traits under in vitro conditions. Of them, only two compatible strains of Bacillus species were selected to be used individually and in a mix to promote tomato seedling growth. The efficiency of three inoculants applied to the soil was assessed in a …

Visual Similarity Effects In The Identification Of Arabic Letters: Evidence With Masked Priming, Maryam A. Aljassmi, Manuel Perea

All Works

Research using masked priming and parafoveal preview techniques has shown that visual letter similarity has an impact on word processing during the initial stages in Latin-derived scripts. However, these effects appear to be absent in Arabic. One reason for this discrepancy could be attributed to the distinctive features of the Arabic script, which includes numerous letters sharing a basic form while varying in the location or number of diacritics. To shed light on this issue, the present study employed Arabic letters rather than words in two masked priming experiments: an alphabetic decision task and a letter-matching task. Both experiments showed …

Intra-Organizational Knowledge Sharing, Ambidexterity And Firm Performance: Evaluating The Role Of Knowledge Quality, Aleksandra Dzenopoljac, Vladimir Dzenopoljac, Shahnawaz Muhammed, Oualid Abidi, Sascha Kraus

All Works

Purpose: This study aims to examine how knowledge sharing contributes to organizations’ ambidexterity, their overall performance and the role of knowledge quality in this relationship. Knowledge sharing is conceptualized based on tacit and explicit dimensions, and ambidexterity is viewed as comprising exploitative and explorative capabilities. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a cross-sectional survey-based research design and structural equation modeling to test the proposed model of knowledge sharing and knowledge quality in organizational ambidexterity and the related hypotheses. Findings: The results indicate that tacit knowledge sharing has a significant, direct impact on the exploitative and explorative capabilities of the organization and indirectly …

New Issues In Temporary Muslim Endowments (Waqf), Moath Alnaief, Kotb Rissouni, Reda Ibrahim Abdelgalil, Maryam Almansoori

All Works

Purpose — This study aims to discuss several examples of temporary Islamic endowments (waqfs) in the modern period, arguing that jurists and Muslim endowment managers should utilise them more widely to adjust to current societal circumstances and open the door for new ways of caring for those in need. Design/Methodology/Approach — It employed textual analysis of legal opinions related to temporary waqfs, outlining the positions of scholars on both sides of the issue, including a presentation and analysis of their evidence. Findings — The research findings show that temporary waqfs are an essential means of renewable and sustainable economic support, …

A Digital Heliometric Device For Monitoring Sun Exposure In Cases Of Hypovitaminosis D: A Qualitative Analysis Of User Evaluations From The Uae, Reem Salem, Justin Thomas, Asad Khattak, Fatme Al Anouti

All Works

Background: Hypovitaminosis D is a significant health concern in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), particularly among females. Wearable devices designed to encourage safe sun exposure could potentially help individuals achieve and sustain healthy vitamin D levels. Objective: This qualitative, proof-of-concept study aimed to explore the evaluations of Emirati women with hypovitaminosis D regarding the usability and effectiveness of wearing a novel heliometric device to promote and measure safe sun exposure. Methods: Nine Emirati women, aged between 19 and 21, adhered to a protocol stipulating that they wear the heliometric device (a wristband) for 10 min daily over one week. Participants …

Phytochemistry Of Isolated Essential Oils From Cautleya Spicata (Sm.) Baker For Their Pesticidal Evaluation And In-Silico Approaches To Reveal The Mode Of Nematicidal Action, Sonu Kumar Mahawer, Manar Fawzi Bani Mfarrej, Ravendra Kumar, Himani Karakoti, Om Prakash, Satya Kumar, Dharmendra Singh Rawat, Aditi Kundu, Pieter Malan, Faheem Ahmad

All Works

This study aimed to assess the chemical composition and pesticidal activities of essential oils (EOs) from Cautleya spicata rhizomes and aerial parts. The EOs were assessed against root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita) by mortality and hatchability bioassays and the phytotoxicity of the EOs was determined against Raphanus raphanistrum subspp. Sativus (radish) and Cichorium intybus (chicory) seeds. In-silico screening of the primary constituents of EOs and five chosen target proteins of the nematode was conducted to predict the expected mechanism of action of these oils. p-Cymene and β-pinene were the key compounds in the EOs from the rhizomes and aerial parts. The …

Tourism And Discourses Of Peace About The Uae In The Israeli Media, Irit Shmuel, Paolo Mura

All Works

By focusing on the recently established diplomatic relations between Israel and the UAE in the aftermath of the 2020 Abraham Peace Accords, this paper critically assesses the emerging narratives of peace and tolerance underpinning the tourism promotional material circulating in the Israeli media between September 2020 (in the aftermath of the Abraham Accords) and August 2023 (before the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023). The study employs a variant of critical discourse analysis known as Cultural Critical Discourse Analysis (CCDA) to unravel the cultural nuances embedded within this discourse. Based on this analysis, a dynamic model is presented …

Acalypha Indica Aqueous Leaf Extract As Potential Nematicide Against The Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne Incognita: In Vitro And Molecular Docking Studies, Altaf Khan, Manar Fawzi Bani Mfarrej, Fohad Mabood Husain, Qamar Zia, Mohd Adil, Mohammed Arshad, Khalid Umar, Niraj Kumar Jha, Pieter Malan, Soumya Pandit, Faheem Ahmad

All Works

Root-knot nematode (RKN) (Meloidogyne incognita) is a major plant parasitic nematode that severely damages crops, leading to significant yield losses and substantial economic impact globally. This study aims to investigate an environmentally sustainable biological strategy for mitigating parasitic populations of the root-knot nematode, M. incognita. Specifically, the research focuses on assessing the nematicidal efficacy of Acalypha indica against M. incognita mortality and second-stage juveniles’ (J2) hatching under controlled in vitro conditions. A. indica leaf aqueous extract was applied at varying concentrations (250, 500, 750, and 1000 ppm) to J2s and egg masses of M. incognita. Notably, at 1000 ppm, a …

Farm-Raised Salmon Business: An International Outline Through Regulations, Environmental Issues, And Consumer Perception., Luiz Felipe Da Silva

Business ETD Collections

This research investigates the key challenges faced by the global farm-raised salmon industry, focusing on economic impacts of regulatory differences, environmental sustainability issues, and consumer perceptions of farm-raised versus wild-caught salmon. Using a mixed research approach, including an interview with a professional and a review of existing literature, the study finds a disconnect between salmon companies and their customers, indicating a need for improved marketing strategies. The research also highlights the importance of high environmental standards in production for enhancing competitiveness. Additionally, the adoption of certifications and high production standards can improve consumer acceptance of farmed salmon over wild-caught alternatives.

Tesla-Addressing Eco Challenges Globally., Enkhzaya Enkhtuvshin

Business ETD Collections

This dissertation examines Tesla Inc.'s contributions to global environmental sustainability through its renewable energy solutions and managerial approach to regulations. Aligning with Tesla's mission as an electric car and energy solutions provider, the study employs secondary qualitative research and thematic analysis to explore the company’s role in sustainability, its market niche, and the regulatory challenges it faces. Key findings highlight differences in legal systems across major markets, the challenges Tesla encounters in meeting diverse environmental standards, and the significance of technology in advancing sustainability initiatives. The research underscores the critical role of multinational enterprises (MNEs) in achieving global sustainability goals …

Investigating The Environmental Impact Of Tesla’S Electric Vehicles Compared To Fossil Fuel Vehicles., Bayezid Han Kulak

Business ETD Collections

Emphasizing production techniques, emissions, and competitive strategies, this project examines the environmental effects of Tesla's electric vehicles (EVs) relative to conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) automobiles. Leading in the EV market as the automotive sector moves toward sustainable practices is Tesla. Still, evaluating the environmental advantages of Tesla cars calls for a thorough investigation going beyond zero tailpipe pollution. This paper looks at the high energy consumption and environmental effects related to the manufacturing of Tesla batteries including cobalt and lithium mining. Emphasizing less greenhouse gas emissions than ICE vehicles, it also assesses the total emissions of Tesla vehicles over …

Recommended Strategies For Tesla Company In Encouraging People To Buy Electric Vehicles (Evs)., Kamran Rafiee

Business ETD Collections

This research explores Tesla's challenges in convincing consumers to transition from internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) to electric vehicles (EVs). It employs a mixed methodology, combining primary and secondary research, to evaluate Tesla's strategies in addressing these barriers. Key findings highlight that while Tesla leads in EV innovation, challenges remain in battery technology, charging infrastructure, affordability, and consumer perception. The study recommends further advancements in battery technology, adoption of innovative solutions like Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) systems, expansion of charging networks, offering additional incentives, and developing cost-effective EV models to enhance affordability and market acceptance.

Macy’S Store Closures: Primary Drivers, E-Commerce Impact, And Strategic Responses To Maintain Brand Loyalty., Joselyn M Maldonado Solis

Business ETD Collections

This research explores the economic and technological factors driving the retail giant Macy’s to close physical stores across the U.S. and how these factors also shape business strategies in the retail industry. With the exacerbated rise of e-commerce and economic factors like operational costs, Macy’s has had to reevaluate their approach to remain competitive in this new digital era.

Through the review of existing literature and the chosen methodology for this project that will rely on in-depth interviews with two experienced retail professionals, this project will dive into how retail chains manage the impact of rising expenses, the shift in …

Coopetition Strategies: Adoption And Effectiveness In Retail Sector., Jonas Starford Chatsika

Business ETD Collections

This study investigates the adoption and effectiveness of coopetition strategies by retail SMEs in countering the perception that large e-commerce platforms threaten their survival. Using a qualitative research methodology and expert interviews, the findings reveal that retail SMEs predominantly adopt horizontal coopetition, such as sharing infrastructure, security services, and group buying. Few engage in platform-based coopetition with large e-commerce platforms. Organisational capability is a key factor influencing the adoption of these strategies, which prove effective in addressing the perceived threat. The study recommends that retail SMEs enhance their organisational capabilities and suggests large e-commerce platforms localise their approaches to better …

Labor Practices And Their Impact On Employee Perception At Amazon Usa., Yelitza Manzano Jimenez

Business ETD Collections

This study examines Amazon employees' perceptions in the United States and their impact on engagement and organisational culture. Since its founding in 1994, Amazon has grown from an online book retailer to a global platform and one of the "Big Four" internet companies. Positive employee perceptions foster engagement through a supportive work environment, but challenges such as timely and transparent feedback persist. Recommendations include adopting an open-door policy aligned with the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) Model to enhance feedback processes and improve engagement, contributing to Amazon’s sustained success.

Accelerating The Transition - Understanding And Addressing Barriers To Consumer Adoption Of Tesla Electric Vehicles., Jyothin Micheal

Business ETD Collections

This research investigates the key influences on adoption of electric vehicles (EVs): focusing on consumer perceptions, advances in technology and government incentives characteristics through Tesla. The study looks at the challenges to EV acceptance, such as charging infrastructure, cost and range anxiety through both qualitative and quantitative means along with potential motivators for adoption such as environmental benefits, financial incentives, technology advances. Consumer awareness, government policies and brand influence are identified having a High effect on EV adoption whereas work-place incentives have an Intermediate effect with high priority to Next. Key challenges are limited charging infrastructure and high upfront costs, …

Changing Nutrition Trends And Mcdonald’S Product Strategies: The Rise Of Plant-Based Products And Their Impact On Consumer Behaviour., Meryem Yildirim

Business ETD Collections

This research explores the influence of McDonald’s plant-based product development strategies on consumer behaviour and brand perception. It highlights the challenges McDonald’s faces when launching plant-based products, particularly in the US, where the desired impact on consumers has not been achieved. The study contrasts this with the success of these products in Europe, where they have enhanced the brand’s sustainability image and contributed to profitability. Additionally, McDonald’s has made strides toward promoting healthy eating by offering plant-based and diet products, while also accommodating cultural and religious sensitivities in its menu localization. The findings emphasise the importance of continuing these strategic …

Investigating Negative Brand Perception And Toxicity In X (Formerly Twitter)., Nandin Batbold

Business ETD Collections

The rapid growth of social media has transformed brand-consumer communication and image management. Among these platforms, X (formerly Twitter) stands out for facilitating real-time interactions and fostering public discourse. While social media provides a powerful channel for engagement, its open and unmoderated nature exposes brands to risks such as negativity, trolling, and toxicity. Recent developments, particularly Elon Musk's 2022 acquisition of X and subsequent rebranding efforts, have heightened these challenges. These organisational changes, including renaming Twitter to X and altering its logo, have sparked mixed reactions from users and brands. This study explores how such drastic transformations impact user activity, …

Global Marketing And Cross-Cultural Challenges In The Home Interiors Industry: Neptune Case Studies., Alida Tuane Silva Ciqueira

Business ETD Collections

This thesis examines the challenges of global marketing for Neptune, a British furniture company, with a focus on cultural differences, branding, and overcoming language and regulatory obstacles. Using a case study approach, the research explores how Neptune adapts its marketing strategies in various countries through partnerships. Through in-depth interviews with key leaders, field research, and document analysis, the study underscores the significance of cultural exchange and social dialogue in maintaining brand identity while supporting local cultures. It also highlights the crucial role of collaborating with local partners to overcome marketing challenges.

The Impact Of Sustainability Initiatives On Corporate Culture: Bord Bia., Feride Baş

Business ETD Collections

This study focuses on the relationship between sustainability practices and culture in Bord Bia, the Irish Food Board, with a clear objective of studying the effects of these practices on environmental, economic and social sustainability. Using literature review and expert interviews, the study determine what organizational cultural values and practices enable sustainable practices within the organization. In the case of Bord Bia, the paper suggests that most of the sustainability goals focused on the organization’s people and practices, especially those under the Origin Green programme, have been the catalyst towards reestablishing that corporates value long-term environmental and economic wellbeing. However, …

Analyzing The Impact Of Negative Publicity About Employee Turnover On Customer Loyalty: A Case Study Of Amazon., Nyambane Abedinego Nyambwengi

Business ETD Collections

This study examines the effect of negative publicity regarding employee turnover on customer loyalty, focusing on Amazon. Using in-depth interviews and surveys, the research highlights how social media platforms, particularly Facebook, and digital communication have facilitated the spread of negative information about Amazon's high employee turnover. While findings suggest that persistent negative media coverage could erode customer confidence over time, no statistical correlation between high turnover, negative publicity, and customer loyalty was established due to an insufficient sample size. The study recommends robust public relations strategies to protect corporate reputation and contributes to the understanding of how internal organisational issues …

Evaluating Mcdonald’S Sustainability Practices: Real Commitment Or Greenwashing?, Lorena Elizabeth Alonso De León

Business ETD Collections

This study critically examines McDonald's sustainability claims and practices, focusing on its greenhouse gas emissions and beef consumption. Through secondary research, the study contrasts McDonald's sustainable initiatives with data from reputable sources and climate institutions. While McDonald's has set a net-zero emissions target for 2050, its position as one of the largest beef buyers, contributing 1-2% of global beef consumption, undermines these efforts. The company’s approach to achieving net-zero emissions is described as vague and unattainable without significant changes to its plant-based menu, agricultural practices, and consumer awareness. The findings highlight a gap between McDonald’s sustainability claims and its operational …

Investigating Factors Influencing Changing Consumer Patterns And The Impact On Sales Revenue In The Clothes Department At Marks & Spencer In Dublin, Ireland., Ruth Boyani Mogire

Business ETD Collections

Constantly changing consumer purchasing behaviours have greatly impacted the sales revenue collection in the clothing department at Marks and Spencer in Dublin. Among the concerns for M&S, is the failure to maintain a constant or predictable sales revenue amount annually due to erratic purchasing patterns among consumers. For organisations such as M&S that depend on growing its sales volumes to realise higher revenues could face challenges due to changing consumer purchasing patterns. As such, it is valid to investigate the factors that influence a changing purchasing pattern among consumers for M&S to increase its sales volumes within the clothes department. …

Bord Bia: Global Marketing Challenges., Guzel Khabibullina

Business ETD Collections

This research examines global marketing challenges faced by Bord Bia, an Irish agency in the food, drink, and horticulture sector, as it seeks to increase market share in the European Union (EU). The study combines primary and secondary research, utilising a case study approach to analyse Bord Bia’s branding, marketing strategies, and digital transformation efforts. Key areas of focus include leveraging sustainable production as a unique selling point, enhancing the Country of Origin (COO) effect, and addressing cultural diversity in marketing activities. Findings highlight the value of a blended marketing strategy, integrating traditional and digital methods, and recommend adopting AI-driven …