18397 research outputs found
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Investigating the Effect of Ambient Smell in Indoor Spaces on Human Emotions Using a Mixed-Method Approach
A significant portion of contemporary human life is spent in indoor environments, yet architects have largely neglected the olfactory aspect of these spaces. To bridge this gap, this research designed a standard and systematic methodology with a mixed-method approach. Experiment findings revealed that alterations in indoor smells can trigger physiological responses in individuals, impacting emotions, performance, and spatial perception. This underscores the potential for establishing new standards in interior smell management. Such a shift transforms smell from a neglected, passive design feature into a dynamic element capable of enhancing emotions, performance, and the well-being of individuals within built environments.</p
Economic Implications Associated with Public Perception of Corporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Performance
This thesis examines how public perception of a company's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance –shaped by external media– affects various facets of company performance. Positive perceptions formed from ESG news enhance financial performance by improving market stability, reducing information asymmetry, and lowering noise trading. These perceptions also lower the risk of stock price crashes. Moreover, when companies greenwash, market participants rely less on company-provided information and more on external ESG news. These findings highlight the importance of external ESG news for financial decision-making and risk management, ultimately benefiting society by promoting sustainable business and investment practices.</p
Lateral Failure Mechanism of Volumetric Buildings
This thesis examines the failure mechanism of the volumetric buildings under lateral actions. Four systematic steps were undertaken, including (i) characterisation of volumetric buildings design, (ii) development of validated nonlinear numerical model, (iii) dynamic properties generalisation and (iv) investigation of failure mechanism of volumetric building under an incremental lateral action. This study yielded some significant outputs. For instance, useful preliminary design tool and mechanical model were developed to facilitate the existing engineering workflow, while the generalised dynamic response and structural weakness for volumetric buildings were also revealed to ensure a more robust and safer structural design for humanity.</p
Dynamic payment on microtasking platforms using bee colony optimization
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Cross-cultural Perspectives on Forensic Risk Assessment
Risk assessment tools are used in forensic settings to estimate risk of reoffending, however a growing body of research has queried whether these tools are appropriate for use cross-culturally. This thesis examined the appropriateness of a widely used risk tool (the LS/RNR) for use with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, African Australian, Pacific Islander and Maori people. Findings suggest that the LS/RNR may not incorporate all relevant risk and protective factors for members of these cultural groups, however further research is required to determine if cultural considerations are best considered as relevant to risk prediction, or to treatment and management
Psychopaths, Narcissists, Machiavellians, Toxic Leaders, Coercive Controllers: Subsets of One Overarching 'Dark' Personality Type?
This thesis presents a model that is potentially the most comprehensive and nuanced representation yet developed of socially aversive personalities (Dark Personality, DP). The breadth of harm imposed by people of DP, including psychopaths, narcissists, and Machiavellians, is substantial and impacts millions of people daily in the most painful and destructive of ways. There is, however, substantial dissension regarding their shared attributes which is not in the interests of humankind, as identification of human predators is key to survival. New and unique approaches to research and highly knowledgeable research populations not previously canvassed for data were engaged for this study
Multimethod Investigation of Access and Engagement of Cognitive Remediation for Schizophrenia
Cognitive dysfunction is a core aspect of altered daily functioning in people with schizophrenia. Cognitive Remediation (CR) is a behavioral intervention that improves cognition and functioning in schizophrenia, with high levels of evidence. CR uptake in clinical services is, however, lacking and relatively high drop-out rates have been observed. The overarching goal of this thesis was to highlight barriers and facilitators of CR access and engagement, using mixed methods. Research and clinical recommendations to improve the quality and frequency of CR implementation are outlined. These would ultimately contribute to better quality of life, functioning, and recovery of people with schizophrenia
Sharing Economy - Enablers and Barriers for Consumption and Production of Ridesharing in Malaysia
This thesis explores the factors that encourage or hinder participation in the ridesharing economy in Malaysia. Using a combination of qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, the study examines the motivations and challenges faced by both consumers and producers. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and platform providers, offering recommendations to enhance user experiences and promote sustainable growth in the ridesharing sector. Through this comprehensive analysis, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics within Malaysia's ridesharing economy.</p
Chemical Stabilization of Washed Recycled Sand in Geotechnical Fill Applications
The thesis titled "Chemical Stabilization of Washed Recycled Sand in Geotechnical Fill Applications" investigates methods to enhance the stability and performance of washed recycled sand derived from construction waste. This research explores innovative chemical treatments to improve the material's suitability for use in geotechnical applications, such as filling and support layers in pavement projects. The benefits of this work include reducing waste in landfills and promoting the use of sustainable materials by adopting green binders. By improving the mechanical performance of stabilized washed recycled sand, this research supports environmental sustainability and contributes to more eco-friendly construction practices.</p
Universal Topological Quantum Computation in a Superfluid Universe
Quantum computers promise to unlock immense computational power far beyond conventional computers. Yet, their potential is hindered by instabilities, causing computational failure. Topological quantum computers, though inherently stable, require exotic phases of matter that are hard to realise. This work reveals that a special kind of systems known as superfluids may serve as a platform for such computers, demonstrating that vortices within them emulate the interactions of elementary particles like electrons and quarks, and even gravity. Interactions in such a “superfluid universe” are shown to facilitate fault-tolerant quantum computation, presenting a novel approach to harnessing the power of quantum systems