In this study, two different numerical methods are used to model the structural behavior and failure mechanisms of unreinforced masonry (URM) walls under in-plane static loading using two simplified micro modelling approaches: The Discrete Finite Element Method (FDEM) and the Applied Element Method (AEM). …

Food loss and waste (FLW) remains a critical global challenge, particularly in the food and beverage (F&B) sector, where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operate under tight margins and fragmented supply chains. This study investigates how F&B SMEs in the Netherlands address sustainability (including …

Background: The etiology of lipoedema remains unclear, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. Current treatment primarily consists of general lifestyle recommendations, with effective self-management being essential for integrating these recommendations into daily life. However, no self-management …

Nicotine is a well-known and highly addictive substance with complex effects on cognition, anxiety, and neurophysiology. Despite its short-term anxiolytic effects, this drug often exacerbates anxiety symptoms. It disrupts emotional regulation through its impact on the central nucleus of the amygdala …

In everyday encounters at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the Netherlands, we experience that diversity discomfort forms a significant challenge: it often results in actions that hamper the creation of inclusive environments. Diversity discomfort concerns the unease that can arise from engaging …

Flood events have become increasingly frequent and severe, presenting significant challenges to urban environments, ecosystems, and public health. This study explores the potential of Environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis in enhancing flood management strategies, ecosystem health monitoring, and community …

This research explored whether machine learning models could predict shifts in participants’ preferences and attitudes towards energy solutions based on behavioural and self-reported engagement data collected during visual educational interventions. Through four sub-questions, the study evaluated how …

This white paper explores the challenges to integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) solutions into clinical practice, addressing perspectives on a) human factors, b) AI technologies, and c) integration in clinical workflow. Through creating insights into these perspectives, we aim to contribute to the …

Hard coastal defences along the Dutch–Belgian North Sea coast are nearing the end of their design life and carry significant ecological costs. Salt marsh Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) provide a self-sustaining alternative. However, existing asset-management (AM) standards continue to view them as "nice-to-have" …

This thesis investigates the restoration and structural reinforcement of a historically protected 19th-century residential building on the island of Hydra, Greece. Undertaken within the strict constraints of Greek heritage law (ΦΕΚ 594Δ/1978), the project aims to enhance structural safety and environmental …