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The purpose of this paper is to present the methodology to the robust stability analysis of a vision‐based control loop in an uncalibrated environment. The type of uncertainties considered is the parametric uncertainties. The approach adopted in this paper utilizes quadratic Lyapunov function to determine the composite Jacobian matrix and ensures the robust stability using linear matrix inequality (LMI) optimization. The effectiveness of the proposed approach can be witnessed by applying it to two‐link robotic manipulator with the camera mounted on the end‐effector.

The objective of this research is the analysis of uncertain nonlinear system by representing it in differential‐algebraic form. By invoking the suitable system representation and Lyapunov analysis, the stability conditions are described in terms of linear matrix inequalities.

The proposed method is proved robust in the presence of parametric uncertainties.

Through a differential‐algebraic equation, LMI conditions are devised that ensure the stability of the uncertain system while providing an estimate of the domain of attraction based upon quadratic Lyapunov function.

Though widely recognized as essential for improving work performance across various domains, self-efficacy’s specific role in managing construction workforces remains understudied. This knowledge gap restricts our ability to uncover new factors that enhance workforce management effectiveness and ultimately boost construction labor productivity (CLP). To address this, our study proposes and tests a novel model. This model explores the impact mechanism of self-efficacy on CLP by investigating the mediating role of work motivation. By delving into this crucial yet underexplored area, we aim to provide valuable insights for construction project managers and researchers alike, paving the way for more effective workforce management strategies and consequently, improved CLP.

This study utilizes a mixed-method approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Data from 112 rebar workers at five construction sites in Vietnam underwent analysis using Cronbach’s alpha, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the novel research model.

The results indicate a positive and significant association between self-efficacy and CLP. Additionally, work motivation emerged as a full mediator in the relationship between self-efficacy and CLP. Specifically, individuals with higher self-efficacy set ambitious goals and invest more effort in their pursuit, leading to increased work motivation and, ultimately, heightened productivity levels.

The significant implications of the current study extend to construction managers and policymakers alike. Construction managers can leverage the findings to devise targeted interventions aimed at enhancing the self-efficacy and work motivation of their workforce, potentially resulting in noteworthy enhancements in CLP. Policymakers, too, can benefit from these findings by formulating policies that actively support the cultivation of self-efficacy and work motivation among construction workers. Such policies have the potential to foster a more productive and efficient construction industry, aligning with the broader goals of workforce development and industry enhancement.

This study expands existing knowledge by identifying the important role of self-efficacy in work performance enhancement and the mediating role of work motivation in terms of these relationships.

Vision‐based inverted robot control exhibits a complex and a multi‐parameter estimation task. Compromises over speed and accuracy must be made to reduce the cost of the system, if high profile techniques are not utilized. The purpose of this paper is to present such a technique where many parameter estimation problems admit partitioning process. The process eliminates the complexity by dividing such a high dimension task into several reduced dimension problems. The partition procedure is defined by human understanding of the task. Here a mechanical setup is designed that handles the pose parameters estimations as a set of sub‐problems. The estimated pose parameters are applied to an inverted robot approaching a target on the floor.

A novel technique that helps the inverted robot to approach its target is detailed here. The new methodology is based upon the modified versions of existing and proven techniques of pure translations and rotations estimations. Providing valid conditions, the parameters of the two vectors of the camera's pose are isolated. In the first pass, the roll angle is adjusted. A subsequent pass uses modified 2‐point algorithm to estimate partial translational vector. Introducing 4‐point algorithm; an extension of pure rotational vector estimation technique, to estimate partial rotational vector. Lastly, visual depth is estimated to complete the task. For simplicity, the robot dynamics are not detailed here. It is assumed that the robot can possibly achieve any position if the desired pose parameters are known.

It is found that the isolated vectors estimation process reduces the complexity of the system and so reduces the computational cost and processing time. The proposed technique is applied to a prototype inverted Cartesian robot having 3D rotary wrist. Through analysis, it is observed that the estimated parameters are very close to the actual pose parameters.

The proposed technique can aid CNC vertical milling machines to countercheck the exact position and orientation of the tool w.r.t. the job. Similar systems in practice are DECKEL MAHO, DMU 60/80/100, 5‐axis package and DMC 35 V series.

The dynamic nature of the method proposed in the paper makes it more efficacious for mechanical/robotic systems with vertically downward tool under gravity effect.

The purpose of this paper is to present the control of six degrees of freedom (PUMA560) robotic arm using visual servoing, based upon linear matrix inequality (LMI). The aim lies in developing such a method that neither involves camera calibration parameters nor inverse kinematics. The approach adopted in this paper includes transpose Jacobian control; thus, inverse of the Jacobian matrix is no longer required. By invoking the Lyapunov's direct method, closed‐loop stability of the system is ensured. Simulation results are shown for three different cases, which exhibit the system stability and convergence even in the presence of large errors.

The paper presents LMI‐based visual servo control of PUMA560 robotic arm.

The proposed method is implementable in the dynamic environment due to its independence to camera and object model.

Visibility constraint is not included during servoing – this may cause features to leave the camera field of view (fov).

LMI optimization is employed for visual servo control in an uncalibrated environment. Lyapunov's direct method is utilized which ensures system stability and convergence.

There is need for exhaustive studies to be undertaken to identify various probiotic strains and to understand the actual mechanism of action by which these probiotics exert their health benefits in order to exploit its fullest health benefits expressed by various kinds of the probiotic strains. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

The health effects of the probiotics can be accessed by in vivo as well as the in vitro studies of live microorganisms and their biological active compounds on various disease-causing organisms and their harmful metabolites.

The paper is a brief review of recent findings about the health benefits of probiotic strains of microorganisms. The health effects of fermented food items were known since the time immemorial, but the actual cause of this was a mystery. Recent discoveries led to the author's knowledge about the mechanism through which they exert these curative effects which is either by competitive inhibition of harmful microbes in gut or by production of biological active compounds against disease-causing organisms and their harmful metabolites.

Probiotics are commonly consumed as part of fermented foods which are produced with active live cultures, so various new types of these probiotic cultures can be introduced which can act as food as well as curative agents for treating and preventing various types of diseases at nominal costs.

This research involves empirical evidence from the Tanzanian context to find out whether participation, trust and transparency have a significant impact on the acceptance of e-government systems.

The research employs a survey of 153 respondents followed by structural equation modelling-variance based (CB-SEM) analysis using PLS 4. The conceptual framework was developed by extending the technology acceptance model (TAM) with additional constructs before testing it in quantitative research.

Results of the model show that the perceived ease of use (PEU) had neither a significant relationship with behaviour intention nor with perceived transparency, while all the other relationships were found to be significant.

Among others, this research provides theoretical underpinnings to the area of acceptance of technologies as well as providing areas for future research and policy implications.

The study presents the relationships involving transparency, trust and participation in e-government systems by the citizens and how they can potentially influence intention to use e-government systems.

The regulatory authorities, mobile service operators and government can use this research to enhance decision-making and governance towards effective use of mobile phone technology in accessing government services.

This research delivers a refined, extended model of TAM that comprises extra constructs, namely, trust, transparency and participation. This model provides the basis for upcoming research in the area of technology acceptance, e-government and in behavioural science.

This paper is determined to examine the role of body image and materialism in predicting the identity exploration of university students when conspicuous consumption is a mediator variable.

The study used a quantitative method. Data were collected from students of three federal universities in Nigeria. The sample size was 331. A self-report questionnaire was used to collect data and analysis was performed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings reveal that materialism has a negative association in predicting the identity exploration of students. At the same time, there was a significant full and partial mediating effect of conspicuous consumption on the relationship between body image and materialism on identity exploration, respectively.

The study provides valuable information for parents in understanding how conspicuous consumption may influence their children’s identity formation. The findings can also be helpful for educators in the design of discussions and interventions for students on the social-psychological antecedents of conspicuous consumption and identity exploration. Government and regulatory agencies can use the study’s findings to shape student financial literacy and consumer protection policies.

This study makes both theoretical and methodological contributions to the existing literature. It provided concrete empirical evidence establishing a subtle connection between the symbolic self-completion theory and the identity status paradigm. It is also amongst the first single research conducted within the scope of these two theories in the Nigerian higher education context.

In recent years, the central monetary authorities of some Gulf Cooperation Council countries have made several regulatory changes in order to achieve social & economic goals. The monetary authorities of these countries have strengthened prudential norms. Asset classifications and provisioning norms have moved closer to international standards. Banks are required to maintain capital to risk weighted assets ratios of 8 per cent required by the BIS. Local banks follow International Accounting Standards. Although the central monetary authorities of the GCC countries are active in supervising and monitoring their regulations on financial institutions, but not in a rapid way. In a global financial market, Islamic‐banking regulators that operate Islamic banks should think about the compatibility of the regulatory setting. Through a deep understanding of the nature of the Islamic banking business and the recent western banking supervisory framework, Islamic banking regulators will be able to develop a sound banking system without loosing its own distinction.

This study aims to investigate the determinants of public trust in e-government services (Te-GS) and participation in social media.

A quantitative cross-sectional field survey was used to collect primary data at the local government level in 11 cities, towns and districts in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam. The final data set of 529 respondents was analysed using SmartPLS4 to evaluate the measurement and structural models.

Perceived responsiveness, transparency and security have strong positive associations with Te-GS, whereas perceived accountability does not. Furthermore, perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness are positively associated with social media participation.

Although previous studies have examined citizen behaviour in the use of e-government services, the social media context has rarely been considered due to its novelty. This study adds to the knowledge of the antecedents of participation in e-government services in developing countries such as Vietnam. Furthermore, it provides a comprehensive framework for understanding participation intention that considers four elements of good governance theory and two elements of the technology acceptance model (TAM), thereby extending previous research on the effects of these variables on the adoption of e-government services.

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted various systems that drove people to adapt to certain technologies, such as electronic government services, for daily survival and to meet social distancing requirements. Therefore, this study aims to determine the antecedents of e-government use based on prospect theory and modified unified theory of acceptance use of technology (UTAUT) during a pandemic.

Convenience sampling of 368 respondents from Vietnam was conducted, and questionnaires were distributed personally or by email. The data were analyzed following a two-stage structural equation modeling (SEM) using SPSS v23 and AMOS v23. The validity and reliability of the instrument were tested and ensured.

Results show that perceived severity drives government support and social influence while perceived security drives government support, social influence and trust. Social influence enhances government support and trust, which both drives e-government use. Mediation analysis shows that government support mediates perceived the influence of perceived severity on e-government use.

The integration of prospect theory and UTAUT brings into light what will drive the adoption of e-government in the context of Vietnam. Supporting mechanisms, such as security measures, trust-building, government support and social influence, will drive citizens to adapt to technologies provided by the government but would also rely on the perceived risks and benefits.

This study integrates prospect theory and a modified version of UTAUT to explain the drivers of e-government use. The results reveal that under uncertainties, government support is critical in driving the use of e-government for people to manage the daily lives for survival.