Abstract:Endangered cultural artifacts require innovative preservation approaches as physical degradation accelerates. We developed protocols for high-resolution 3D scanning and virtual reality presentation of Byzantine mosaics in Northern Greece. Sub-millimeter accuracy captured details invisible to naked eye observation. Virtual museum installations enabled global access while reducing physical visitation stress on fragile sites. Machine learning algorithms detected early deterioration patterns informing conservation priorities. Our methodology establishes standards for digital heritage preservation applicable to diverse cultural contexts.
Abstract:Water scarcity threatens rural livelihoods across arid regions of North Africa. We designed and field-tested solar-powered membrane desalination units optimized for off-grid operation in Moroccan villages. The modular system produces 500 liters daily from brackish groundwater using photovoltaic panels. Capital costs were recovered within three years through avoided water purchasing. Community ownership models ensured maintenance sustainability. These appropriate technology solutions address water security while building local technical capacity in underserved regions.
Abstract:The rapid shift to remote work during the pandemic had mixed effects on employee wellbeing. We tracked mental health indicators in 2,400 Swedish knowledge workers over three years following the transition. Initial improvements in work-life balance gave way to increased isolation and boundary erosion. Employees with dedicated workspaces and supportive management reported sustained benefits. Hybrid arrangements optimizing both flexibility and social connection emerged as preferred models. Our findings guide organizational policies for sustainable remote work implementation.
Abstract:Indigenous Pacific communities possess rich ecological knowledge accumulated over millennia of sustainable resource use. We documented traditional marine management practices across 12 Tongan island communities through ethnographic fieldwork. Customary taboo systems effectively maintained fish populations in designated areas. Integration of traditional knowledge with modern marine protected area design improved community compliance and conservation outcomes. Our participatory framework ensures indigenous knowledge holders lead conservation planning while maintaining cultural protocols.
Abstract:Textile manufacturing generates substantial waste despite growing circular economy awareness. We investigated barriers and enablers for circular practices in Nigerian textile firms through case studies of 28 companies. Key barriers included limited recycling infrastructure, consumer preferences for virgin materials, and insufficient policy incentives. Successful adopters leveraged partnerships with waste collectors and invested in worker training. Our transition framework identifies intervention points for policy makers seeking to accelerate circularity in emerging economy manufacturing sectors.
Abstract:Aging populations in Southeast Asia face digital exclusion as services increasingly move online. We evaluated digital literacy programs for seniors across six ASEAN countries through surveys and interviews with 1,800 participants. Singapore and Malaysia achieved highest adoption rates through community-based peer learning models. Barriers included interface complexity, language limitations, and privacy concerns. Successful programs emphasized practical applications for healthcare and family communication. Our policy recommendations address regional disparities in digital infrastructure and training accessibility.
Abstract:Urban stormwater transports significant microplastic loads to receiving waters. We monitored microplastic concentrations in stormwater from three Chilean cities over two years. Peak concentrations occurred during first flush events following dry periods. Tire wear particles and synthetic fibers dominated samples. Green infrastructure including bioretention cells reduced microplastic loads by 73% compared to conventional drainage. Our findings inform urban water management strategies prioritizing source control and treatment train approaches.
Abstract:Healthcare AI systems increasingly influence clinical decisions yet raise significant ethical concerns. We conducted a mixed-methods study examining physician and patient perspectives on AI-assisted diagnosis across five Romanian hospitals. While clinicians appreciated efficiency gains, 67% expressed concerns about algorithmic transparency. Patients demonstrated variable trust levels influenced by age and education. Our framework proposes mandatory explainability requirements and shared decision-making protocols for AI deployment in medical settings.
Abstract:Background: The preventive effect of religion on suicide diminishes when social conditions become unbearable for individuals. The statutory decrees (KHK) implemented in Turkey, particularly after the July 15, 2016, coup attempt, are anti-democratic regulations that grant extensive powers without judicial oversight. These decrees have deprived tens of thousands of people of their jobs, social rights, and reputations, leading to widespread social trauma. Objective: This study aims to understand how the relatives of those who died by suicide due to KHK and individuals who attempted suicide because of KHK perceive the relationship between suicide and religion. Additionally, it seeks to reveal the devastating effects of unlawful practices on both national and international levels. Method: In-depth interviews were conducted with 19 relatives of individuals who died by suicide due to KHK and 11 individuals who attempted suicide as a result of KHK. Among the relatives of the deceased, seven were men and twelve were women, while three of the suicide survivors were women and eight were men. The data were analyzed using Foucauldian discourse analysis. Findings: Religious Evaluations of the Relatives of the Deceased: The injustice and suffering experienced by KHK victims played a decisive role in the religious assessment of suicide. Suicide was seen as an act that could be forgiven and tolerated. Religious Perceptions of Those Who Attempted Suicide: Some participants who attempted suicide interpreted it within the framework of God's mercy and understanding. They expressed that religious discourses are insufficient in comprehending the deep struggles of the human soul and, in some cases, fail to provide solutions. During moments of exhaustion and hopelessness, religious beliefs lost their influence, and mental collapse became predominant. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that religious beliefs shape general attitudes toward suicide but do not play a directly preventive role. The following recommendations are made: -Religious discourses should adopt a non-judgmental, understanding, and supportive perspective, and psychosocial studies should be conducted on the subject. -Awareness campaigns should be organized, recognizing suicide as a phenomenon related to social, psychological, and economic factors. -Social support mechanisms should be strengthened to prevent increasing mental collapses, especially among individuals affected by political processes.
Abstract:Pulmonary infarction (PI) is the result of an occlusion of a distal pulmonary artery. This results ischemia and possible hemorrhage or tissue necrosis of the pulmonary tissue distally. It is caused by another primary disease state, most commonly pulmonary embolism (PE). Understanding the broad differential diagnosis associated with PI is important, as associated signs and symptoms have limited specificity and PI may be the first indication of such a significant underlying pathology. The reported annual incidence of PE varies between 75 and 269 cases per 100,000 persons, and mortality rates as high as 28% have been described. Although the dual blood supply to the lungs, i.e. the pulmonary and the bronchial circulation, is thought to be protective against pulmonary ischemia, pulmonary infarction can be found in 10 to 50% of all patients with PE. The lungs receive deoxygenated blood from the pulmonary arteries (low pressure, high flow circulation) and oxygenated blood from the bronchial arteries (at systemic pressure, i.e. 6 times that of the pulmonary arteries). The function of the pulmonary circulation is mainly gas exchange, whereas the bronchial circulation supplies the bronchial walls, the visceral pleura and the lung parenchyma with oxygenated blood (next to direct passive diffusion of oxygen in the latter). This dual blood supply has been thought to be protective against ischemic injuries of the lungs. Animal models have shown that lung tissue may stay viable after ligation of the supplying pulmonary artery, where perfusion is maintained by the bronchial circulation. In this study, we give evidenc to the patterns of bronchial arteries undergo smooth muscle wall hypertrophy and dilate to direct more oxygenated blood to ischemic lung tissue, and eventually increase in number. Even so, obstruction of a pulmonary artery by acute PE can cause difference in severity in pulmonary infarction.