1. Dowel-laminated timber from reclaimed boards : bending properties and stiffness prediction from board-level NDTMohammad Derikvand, Olga Srejić, Matthew Schwarzkopf, Michael Nicolas Mrissa, 2026, original scientific article Abstract: Reusing timber in load-bearing applications is a strategy for extending material lifecycles and reducing the environmental impact of construction. However, uncertainty in mechanical properties of reclaimed timber due to the absence of standardized strength grading is a key barrier. The aim of this study was to produce and evaluate the bending properties of dowel-laminated timber (DLT) from reclaimed boards and to assess whether its bending stiffness can be predicted from board-level non-destructive testing (NDT) data. For this, several reclaimed spruce beams with ~200 years of service life were obtained from a heritage building. The beams were 3D-imaged, sawn into boards, and the recovery yield was calculated. The relationship between the dynamic (Edyn) and static (Em,g) modulus of elasticity of the boards was evaluated and benchmarked against virgin boards (strength class C24). DLT specimens with beech dowels were then produced using a stiffness-informed lamination process in three configurations: (i) DLT from reclaimed boards, (ii) DLT from virgin boards, and (iii) hybrid DLT combining reclaimed and virgin boards. The DLT specimens were tested in bending until failure. Based on the results, the recovery yield after initial sawing was 79%, calculated as the volume of the sawn boards relative to the volume of the beams. After defect removal and planing, the recovery yield decreased to 32.1% for the final full-length boards plus about 1.9% shorter pieces. Service-related biological and physical degradations had a greater in- fluence on the recovery yield than the sawing process itself. A strong relationship (R² = 0.823) was found be- tween Edyn of the reclaimed boards before defect removal and planing and their Em,g after full processing. The DLT specimens from the reclaimed boards exhibited bending strength and stiffness comparable to those of DLT from the virgin boards. A simplified analytical model based on board-level stiffness (Edyn or Em,g) predicted the average DLT bending stiffness within ±2%. Overall, the findings demonstrate that stiffness-informed lamination based on board-level NDT can be used to produce DLT from reclaimed timber with predictable performance
Keywords: reuse, repurpusing, reclaimed timber, recovered timber, beech dowels, DLT, non-destructive testing, bending test, dynamic modulus of elasticity, failure analysis
Published in RUP: 14.09.2026; Views: 345; Downloads: 23
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2. The role of business english in career advancement for non-native english speakers : bachelor thesisOleksandr Anufriiev, 2026, undergraduate thesis Keywords: BELF, language proficiency, career advancement, language policy, corporate language policy, workplace communication, multinational organizations, non-native speakers
Published in RUP: 21.08.2026; Views: 440; Downloads: 27
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3. Undergraduate nursing students’ reflections on simulation-based learning : a qualitative studyJakob Renko, Helena Skočir, Patrik Pucer, Igor Karnjuš, 2026, original scientific article Keywords: high-fidelity simulation, non-technical skills, nursing education, reflective learning, simulation-based learning
Published in RUP: 11.06.2026; Views: 623; Downloads: 24
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4. Exploring the Effects of Multimodal User Interfaces in Autonomous VehiclesKristina Stojmenova Pečečnik, Timotej Gruden, Grega Jakus, Sašo Tomažič, Jaka Sodnik, 2025, independent scientific component part or a chapter in a monograph Abstract: This short paper presents a study design created to explore how multimodal user interfaces (UIs) influence comfort, user experience, and overall well-being in fully autonomous vehicles. The study uses a motion-based driving simulator equipped with real vehicle components to provide realistic driving conditions. Participants are asked to complete two trials: a baseline trial and one with either a simple or extended multimodal UI combining auditory, tactile, and speech-based feedback. Driving scenarios include lane changes, emergency braking, V2X and V2V communication, and road surface variations. Data collection integrates physiological measures (EGG, EDA, PPG), self-assessment questionnaires on motion sickness (MSAQ) and user experience (UEQ), and performance on a reading comprehension task simulating non-driving activities. The paper provides some initial data about the participants’ demographics and their user experience with the UI, and gives an insight into the planned nest steps in terms of analysis and results application. The findings from this study will provide an insight into the potential of multimodal HMI design to enhance safety, comfort, and user acceptance in autonomous vehicles.
Keywords: user interface, autonomous vehicle, multimodal interaction, non-driving related task
Published in RUP: 30.01.2026; Views: 905; Downloads: 1
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5. Integration of Hybrid Animation in a 360-degree EnvironmentAleksandar Ilievski, Suzana Žilič Fišer, Simon Kolmanič, 2025, independent scientific component part or a chapter in a monograph Abstract: This paper addresses the lack of an existing pipeline for integrating Hybrid Animation in a 360-degree environment. While works like Google Spotlight’s Pearl showcase the expressive potential of cinematic VR (Virtual Reality) animation using stylized NPR (Non-Photorealistic Rendering) techniques, they lack the integration of 2D visual elements. We propose a pipeline that leverages accessible tools, including Blender’s Grease Pencil for 2D animation, NPR shading for stylized 3D rigs, and a 360-degree render using a metadata injector. Our framework makes hybrid 360-degree animation more accessible and adaptable, enabling future developments and creative applications.
Keywords: Virtual Reality, Hybrid Animation, 360-degree video, Blender, Non-photorealistic Rendering
Published in RUP: 30.01.2026; Views: 1148; Downloads: 10
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6. Real-time gesture transmission with a robotic hand : embodied signals for non-verbal remote communicationLea Pajnič, Matjaž Kljun, Anuradhi Maheshya W. Weerasinghe Arachchillage, Klen Čopič Pucihar, 2025, published scientific conference contribution Abstract: This work explores how computer vision and robotics can support remote, gesture-based embodied signals for expressing presence and emotion in remote communication. We present an initial proof-of-concept in which users interact through robotic hands placed on their desks: one user’s hand gestures are captured in real time by a camera, transmitted over a network, and reproduced by a robotic hand at the remote location. The prototype uses the InMoov robotic hand and MediaPipe Hands for gesture tracking across varied lighting conditions, viewing angles, and backgrounds. Our preliminary tests demonstrate that gestures can be reliably recognised and consistently reproduced through stable network communication. While still at an early stage, this project illustrates the potential of combining affordable robotics with computer vision to create accessible alternatives to voice communication and new forms of remote communication.
Keywords: robotic hand, gesture transmission, embodied signals, non-verbal communication, remote communication, computer vision
Published in RUP: 30.01.2026; Views: 1146; Downloads: 9
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7. Role of music therapy in the development of language skills in children with autism spectrum disorder : a systematic literature reviewLucija Mlakar, Vesna Posavčević, 2026, review article Abstract: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that typically emerges in early childhood, marked by difficulties in communication, social interaction, behaviour, and emotional regulation. Despite these challenges, many children with ASD demonstrate exceptional musical abilities, making music a powerful medium for enhancing self-expression, fostering social bonds, and supporting neurological development crucial for speech and social skills. Historically, minimally verbal children with ASD were often excluded from research due to the difficulty of assessment using standardised tools; however, recent advancements have enabled more inclusive studies. Over the past decade, naturalistic approaches have gained prominence, with music therapy emerging as a particularly promising intervention. A systematic literature review, based on original research sourced from PubMed, Sage, and ScienceDirect, examined six studies involving children aged two to twelve years with minimal verbal abilities and a clinical diagnosis of autism. These studies consistently found that music therapy significantly supports the development of language and social communication skills, while also enhancing fronto-temporal brain connectivity. The review contributes valuable insights into the current state of research, underscores the importance of early intervention and parental involvement, and lays the groundwork for further exploration into the role of music therapy in language development for children with ASD.
Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, children, minimal language abilities, social communication, fronto-temporal brain connectivity, music therapy, non-music therapy
Published in RUP: 28.01.2026; Views: 1234; Downloads: 29
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8. Assessing the Impact of Lake Attributes on Rental Prices : A Hedonic Pricing Study of Lake Ohrid, AlbaniaEngjëllushe Icka, Anila Boshnjaku, Engjëll Skreli, 2025, original scientific article Abstract: This study aims to quantify the economic value of environmental, structural and locational characteristics that influence rental prices of holiday flats in the Lake Ohrid region of Albania. A hedonic pricing model is applied to a dataset of 164 holiday flats listed on Booking.com, covering weekend stays across the peak tourist season. A partially log–log regression specification is used, with both rental price and flat area log-transformed to account for skewness and diminishing returns. The results highlight the strong effect of natural amenities: lake views and proximity to greenery increase rental prices by approximately 12% and 15%, respectively. Structural features such as larger flat size, greater bed capacity, newer construction, and the inclusion of breakfast services also significantly raise rental prices. In contrast, features like floor level, lift access, parking availability and balconies did not show a significant price effect. The model also reveals that greater distance from the municipal hospital reduces rental price, underscoring the importance of accessibility. These findings offer practical guidance for real estate investors, hospitality providers, and local authorities working to support sustainable tourism and regional development.
Keywords: non-market valuation, lake attributes, hedonic pricing, Lake Ohrid, Albania
Published in RUP: 20.01.2026; Views: 741; Downloads: 7
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9. Assessment tools for non-technical skills in multidisciplinary healthcare team simulation-based education : a scoping reviewIgor Karnjuš, Kristina Martinović, Jakob Renko, Patrik Pucer, 2025, independent scientific component part or a chapter in a monograph Keywords: simulation-based education, multidisciplinary teams, assessment tools, team training, non-technical skills
Published in RUP: 23.06.2025; Views: 1552; Downloads: 20
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10. Political Philosophy : Study notes for the Philosophy course, MA in Political Sciences – International relation end economic diplomacy. First edition.Simona Kustec, Andreja Pegan, other educational material Abstract: The structure of the study material is based on the lecture and seminar notes that have been prepared for the students of the MA study programme of Political Sciences – International relations and economic diplomacy at the University of Primorska, Faculty of Management. Study material is structured into six parts. The first part is devoted to the introduction to philosophy, encompassing elementary definitions and descriptions of its branches, with a special emphasis made to political philosophy. In the second part, the historically main leading political thinkers and their thoughts are presented, being further on theoretically comprehensively presented through main political philosophical concepts (in the third part of the study material) and political ideologies in the fourth part. The fifth part is devoted to the presentation of the main virtues of the so called non-Western political ideologies and their thoughts. The last, sixth part is a compendium of cited and recommended fundamental references of the topics and issues of political philosophy study manuals. The purpose of these notes is to complement lectures and students’ readings.
Keywords: political philosophy, history of political thought, political philosophers, political ideologies and concepts, political philosophy in non-Western world
Published in RUP: 24.01.2023; Views: 5840; Downloads: 0
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