Research Title: A new approach for optimal sizing and allocation of distributed generation in power grids

Author: Wasseem Hani Al Rousan, Published Year: 2025

International Journal of Power Electronics and Drive System, Vol 16 No 3

Faculty: Engineering and Technology

Abstract: This paper presents a methodology for optimizing the allocation and sizing of distributed generators (DG) in electrical systems, aiming to minimize active power losses on transmission lines and maintain bus voltages within permissible limits. The approach consists of two stages. First, a sensitivity based analysis is used to identify the optimal candidate bus or buses for DG placement. In the second stage, a new random number generation method is applied to determine the optimal DG sizing. Moreover, a ranking for the optimal locations and sizes is given in case the optimal location is unavailable in real world scenarios. The proposed methodology is demonstrated through a straightforward algorithm and tested on the IEEE 14 bus and IEEE 30 bus networks. Numerical simulations in MATLAB illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach in finding the optimal allocation of DG and the amount of active power to be allocated at the candidate buses, considering the inequality constraints regarding voltage limits and DG allowable power. The paper concludes with results, discussions, and recommendations derived from the proposed approach.

Keywords: DG allocation, Jacobian matrix, Loss reduction, Sensitivity analysis, Sizing of DG power

Research Title: Exploring the Intentions of Jordanian Patients Diagnosed with Hyperlipidemia to Engage in Physical Activity

Author: Maha Mohammed Wahbi Atout, Published Year: 2025

Healthcare , 13

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Background: The aim of this study was to explore the intention of Jordanian patients diag- nosed with hyperlipidemia to engage in physical activity. This objective was achieved via an in-depth analysis of how patient attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control can influence patient intentions to exercise. Additionally, this research examined how sociodemographic factors and perceived barriers can impact patient participation in physical activity. Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional approach on a con- venience sample of Jordanian patients diagnosed with hyperlipidemia. To gain the required data, a 15-item questionnaire (derived from the Theory of Planned Behavior) was presented to the participants in the form of an online survey (via several platforms, including What- sApp, Facebook, and email). Results: The results indicate that perceived behavioral control had a significant correlation with the participants’ intentions to participate in physical activ- ity. Additionally, the findings revealed that there were no significant correlations between demographic features (age, marital status, level of education, and monthly income) and intention to engage in physical activity. However, the results ascertained the existence of several facilitators to exercise (such as financial resource availability, self-interest, beneficial weather conditions, and supportive friends or exercise partners). The most commonly reported barriers to physical activity included time constraints, work commitments, and limitations imposed by existing health conditions. Conclusions: These findings provide valuable insights that can be employed to develop physical activity programs that address the cultural needs of Jordanian patients diagnosed with hyperlipidemia and enhance their levels of physical activity.

Keywords: intention; physical activity; Jordanian patients; hyperlipidemia

Research Title: Evaluating wavelet decomposition techniques in protective relays under continuous run-time simulated operation

Author: Wasseem Hani Al Rousan, Published Year: 2025

Results in Engineering, 27

Faculty: Engineering and Technology

Abstract: As modern power systems continue to evolve with the integration of advanced technologies and a growing share of renewable energy sources, maintaining grid stability has become increasingly challenging. Variations in the fundamental frequency and the presence of harmonics can significantly affect the performance of electrical networks. To ensure a stable and reliable grid, continuous monitoring and protection are essential through digital measurements and frequency analysis. This study introduces a run-time testing model for protective frequency relays, utilizing the Wavelet transform as a signal decomposition. Known for its ability to analyze non-stationary signals, the Wavelet transform is applied in three testing configurations: run-time Simulink operation, a combination of Simulink and function-based testing, and run-time sampling for assessing over- and under-frequency relay performance. The model's effectiveness is evaluated based on several key factors, including system complexity, run time responsiveness, data sampling resolution, reaction time, and overall performance. Unlike traditional methods, this approach supports real-time signal decomposition, effective noise filtering, and accurate detection of transient faults. As a result, it delivers more reliable, responsive, and practical protection under the dynamic conditions of modern power grids.

Keywords: Run time operation, Wavelet analysis, Protective relay, Dynamic modeling, Data-driven analysis models, Dynamic condition monitoring

Research Title: Exploring Jordanian nurses’ attitudes toward conducting nursing research: cross-sectional study from Jordan

Author: Maha Mohammed Wahbi Atout, Published Year: 2025

Frontiers in Medicine , 12

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Background: Research is essential in nursing to augment the existing knowledge foundation underpinning the field, from education through practice and administration. To date, few studies have explored this topic in Jordan or the broader Middle Eastern region, and this study addresses this important gap. Objective: The objective of the current study was thus to examine the perspectives of Jordanian nurses concerning the practice of nursing research. Methods: In a cross-sectional descriptive study, 220 nurses from public, private, and academic institutions in Jordan were approached using a convenience sampling to complete the Boothe Attitudes Toward Nursing Research Scale. Results: The results showed that the overall mean score of all Boothe subscales was 3.289, SD = 0.968, reflecting practitioners’ uncertainty as a cohort in their attitudes toward research. Nurses exhibited somewhat favorable attitudes regarding the incentives and benefits associated with conducting nursing research, however (mean = 3.439, SD = 1.038). Statistically significant effects were also seen for participants’ level of education (F (2,218) = 39.993, p < 0.000), their personal interest in research (F (2,218) = 26.251, p < 0.000), and whether they received an incentive for doing studies. Conclusion: This study suggests that if hospital administrators work to collaborate with the academic institution to advance and facilitate higher education, they can improve patient outcomes by ensuring that more nursing practices are safe and evidence-based

Keywords: nursing research, attitude, conducting research, Jordan, cross-sectional study

Research Title: pH-responsive chlorhexidine LbL coated silica nanoparticles for managing skin wound infections

Author: Raida W. Khalil, Published Year: 2025

Colloid and Interface Science Colloids and Surface, 726

Faculty: Science

Abstract: Skin wound infections pose a significant challenge for clinical treatment due to the development of biofilm. In this study, a wound dressing was employed to accelerate healing by enhancing the release and effectiveness of antimicrobial agents. pH-sensitive silica nanoparticles (SiNP) were designed to enable targeted drug delivery in both acidic and neutral wound environments, optimizing drug delivery. Chlorhexidine (CHX), a well-known antiseptic, was incorporated into SiNP using a layer-by-layer (LbL) coating method. The nanoparticles were characterized for size (TEM), surface charge (zeta potential), FTIR, TGA, CHX release. The CHX-loaded SiNP (CHX-SiNP) exhibited a 2–3 times higher release at pH 5 compared to pH 7.4. Additionally, CHX-SiNP demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, without showing cytotoxicity in cell viability tests. To enhance usability, CHX-SiNP were incorporated into alginate hydrogels. Their antibacterial efficacy was further evaluated using artificial wounds created in an ex vivo human skin, where alginate-formulated CHX-SiNP treatment resulted in decrease in viable bacterial cells, compared to negative controls. These findings confirm that CHX-SiNP enable effective pH-responsive drug release, ensuring strong antibacterial performance. Furthermore, this study highlights the clinical potential of CHX-SiNP in treating wound infections.

Keywords: pH-responsive chlorhexidine LbL

Research Title: Jordanian nursing students’ perceptions of the compassionate actions of their clinical instructors: a mixed-methods study

Author: Rabia Hani Amin Haddad, Published Year: 2025

BMC Nursing, 24

Faculty: Nursing

Abstract: Background: In helping professions such as nursing, caring is regarded as a fundamental principle. Observations of nursing students revealed both caring and non-caring behaviors, highlighting the complexity of professional development within clinical and educational settings. Aim: This study sought to understand how Jordanian nursing students perceived the caring behavior of clinical instructors during their clinical training. Method A mixed-methods approach was utilized to recruit data from (n = 200) nursing students using the Nursing Students’ Perception of Instructor Caring (NCPIC) developed by Wade and Kasper (2006). Result: The findings showed that the average mean score for clinical instructor behaviors perceived by nursing students was at a medium level (M = 3.40 out of 6). Four themes were extracted, namely, communication, professionalism, holistic caring (mothering), and motivation. In contrast, the non-caring behaviors were reflected in poor communication, governing, and unfavorable personal traits of the clinical instructors, as well as acting in a non-professional manner. Conclusion: Caring has been emphasized as a key component of nursing education. It should be inherent in the behavior and actions of clinical instructors when they interact with nursing students in a clinical setting. Clinical trial number Not applicable.

Keywords: Caring, Caring behavior, Nursing students, Professionalism, Clinical instructor, Non-clinical behavior

Research Title: pH-responsive chlorhexidine LbL coated silica nanoparticles for managing skin wound infections

Author: Yazan Mohammad Al-Thaher, Published Year: 2025

Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, Volume 726, Part 1,

Faculty: Pharmacy

Abstract: Skin wound infections pose a significant challenge for clinical treatment due to the development of biofilm. In this study, a wound dressing was employed to accelerate healing by enhancing the release and effectiveness of antimicrobial agents. pH-sensitive silica nanoparticles (SiNP) were designed to enable targeted drug delivery in both acidic and neutral wound environments, optimizing drug delivery. Chlorhexidine (CHX), a well-known antiseptic, was incorporated into SiNP using a layer-by-layer (LbL) coating method. The nanoparticles were characterized for size (TEM), surface charge (zeta potential), FTIR, TGA, CHX release. The CHX-loaded SiNP (CHX-SiNP) exhibited a 2–3 times higher release at pH 5 compared to pH 7.4. Additionally, CHX-SiNP demonstrated strong antibacterial activity against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, without showing cytotoxicity in cell viability tests. To enhance usability, CHX-SiNP were incorporated into alginate hydrogels. Their antibacterial efficacy was further evaluated using artificial wounds created in an ex vivo human skin, where alginate-formulated CHX-SiNP treatment resulted in decrease in viable bacterial cells, compared to negative controls. These findings confirm that CHX-SiNP enable effective pH-responsive drug release, ensuring strong antibacterial performance. Furthermore, this study highlights the clinical potential of CHX-SiNP in treating wound infections.

Keywords: PH-response, Silica nanoparticles, Controlled drug release, Wound infection, Ex vivo skin.

Research Title: Workplace violence in Jordanian hospitals: sociodemographic and occupational characteristics influences, effect on quality of care and recommended solutions

Author: Audi Naji Khaled Al Smadi, Published Year: 2025

Journal of Health Organization and Management,

Faculty: Business

Abstract: Purpose – Workplace violence (WPV) negatively affects the well-being of healthcare workers (HCWs) and the healthcare system. This study explores how sociodemographic factors impact WPV prevalence, its effect on the quality of care, and possible solutions to decrease WPV in Jordanian hospitals. Design/methodology/approach – This study employs a retrospective cross-sectional design, using a webbased survey of 651 HCWs. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, logistic regression, an independent sample t-test, and path analysis. Findings – Around 651 HCWs participated in this study, and only 316 revealed they experienced WPV. Multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed the significance of occupation, sector, and education level in influencing WPV. The result revealed a significant reduction in the quality of care of HCWs exposed to WPV. HCWs shared valuable recommendations to decrease WPV in their workplace. The recommendations were categorized under seven main areas: cultural issues, legal and legislative, administrative measures, internal organization arrangement, quality of health care services, physical working environment, and finally, training and awareness. Practical implications – Hospital management and policymakers should consider factors like local culture, legal and administrative measures, policies, healthcare quality, work environment, and community awareness when addressing WPV. Moreover, healthcare workers can offer valuable recommendations to reduce WPV prevalence and impact in healthcare settings. Originality/value – This is a unique study that explores the relationship between WPV and quality of care in Jordanian hospitals. It considers sociodemographic and occupational characteristics as contributing factors to WPV in hospitals and seeks realistic solutions from the victims’ perceptions.

Keywords: Workplace violence, Quality of care, Hospital, Jordan

Research Title: An overview of teaching AI literacy to university students

Author: Lamis Al-Qoran, Published Year: 2024

Faculty: Information Technology

Abstract: Although artificial intelligence (AI) is increasing in influence across different fields, the subject of AI literacy in higher education (HE) remains inadequately explored. Through a systematic review of 19 peer-reviewed journal articles, this chapter fills that gap. The findings of this study highlight the advancements in AI literacy education across different subject disciplines. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and practical skills in managing the increasingly complicated world driven by AI.

Keywords: AI literacy education, Ethical AI, AI curriculum design, AI in higher education, Impact of AI literacy, AI and students with disabilities

Research Title: The Role of User Experience in Software Sustainability Designing for Longevity

Author: Lamis Al-Qoran, Published Year: 2025

2025 16th International Conference on Information and Communication Systems (ICICS), Jordan University of Science and Technology

Faculty: Information Technology

Abstract: User experience (UX) design plays a key role in ensuring the application's long-term sustainability by improving maintainability, usability and to adapt in continuously evolving digital environments. UX design has been shown to improve user engagement and satisfaction. It also reduces technical cost by reducing unconventional redesigns. Poor UX design can lead to abandoning the program as the user is directed towards easier alternatives, which increases the cost of maintenance. This paper investigates the role of UX design in the production of software systems that live over the long term and to explain its contribution to the focus on the user. This paper aims to examines the role of UX design in the long-term production of software systems and explain its contribution to user centeredness, iterative design processes, simple interfaces and customized interfaces that are supported by artificial intelligence in increasing software longevity and operating efficiency. Our research brings together current studies and best practices, reviews the comparison of successful user experience design with unsustainable software, and focuses on the benefits of investing in UX design. We concluded that UX practices significantly improve maintainability, retain users, and extend the life of the software. The study highlights the importance of incorporating sustainability into UX design, as this produces more scalable and future-proof software products. Index Terms—UX Design, Software Sustainability, Long-Term Viability, Technical Debt, Iterative Design, Minimalism, AI- Driven Personalization

Keywords: Costs , Production , Software systems , User experience , Maintenance , Iterative methods , Sustainable development , Usability , Artificial intelligence , Software development management