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Background Primary care includes preventive and acute care, and management of long-term conditions. In Sweden, approximately 40 million annual visits are made to primary care, of which more than 12 million are registered nurse consultations. Registered nurses are often responsible for initial assessments, including triage and prioritization. Timely and accurate assessments are essential, as inappropriate decisions may adversely affect both care quality and patient outcomes. However, demographic changes, rising chronic disease prevalence, and growing expectations for accessible and efficient services continue to strain primary care capacity. Therefore, this study aims to explore registered nurses' experiences of goal conflicts in decision-making during primary care consultations for acute illnesses, with a focus on clinical assessment, prioritization, and their perceived consequences. Methods A qualitative study using semi-structured focus group discussions was conducted to explore registered nurses' experiences and perspectives. Seven focus group discussions with 27 registered nurses in Sweden were conducted between April and May 2025. A thematic analysis was conducted. Results The results present one overarching theme, Juggling conflicting demands of optimal and timely care with limited resources, and four interrelated themes illustrating these goal conflicts: organizational demands versus quality of care, accessibility versus risk of crowding out, expectations versus adequate resources, and teamwork versus professional autonomy. The findings highlight conflicting organizational, professional, and patient-driven goals that result in ethical dilemmas and ambivalence among registered nurses. Conclusions This study indicates that goal conflicts in primary care arise from extensive assessment responsibilities placed on registered nurses without adequate alignment with education, competence, and organizational support. Despite extensive responsibilities for clinical assessment, decision-making, and prioritization, registered nurses have limited influence over organizational conditions, creating an asymmetry between responsibility and authority. These findings suggest a need for improved alignment between roles, competence, and organizational support.

Research on how socioeconomic status (SES) and gender interact to affect student achievement has produced contradictory findings. Some studies suggest boys are more vulnerable to socioeconomic disadvantage; others find the opposite. This paper argues that these conflicting results stem from a methodological artifact: because boys report their parents’ education less accurately than girls do, the source of parental education data in large-scale assessments fundamentally shapes estimates of the SES–gender interaction. PISA 2006 and 2009 provide data on 151,269 fifteen-year-old students from 20 countries for whom both parent-reported and student-reported parental education were available. This within-subject design allowed a direct comparison of the parental-education–gender interaction in mathematics achievement, isolating the effect of the data source. The direction of the interaction systematically reverses depending on the data source. When using reliable parent-reported data, the parental-education gradient is steeper for boys in the majority of country-waves (18 of 31), consistent with the “vulnerable boys” hypothesis. In 12 of those 18 cases, the results reverse to indicate “vulnerable girls” when using the more commonly available student-reported proxy data. A sign test confirmed that the interaction estimate was more negative with student data in 28 of 31 country-waves (p < 0.001). The choice of data source is not a minor technical detail but a factor that can reverse conclusions about educational equity.

Based on a configurative systematic review of 44 papers, this study proposes a model for implementing mathematics curriculum materials in teacher education. The review identifies three learning objectives — learning from, about, and with the materials. For each objective, the suggested model outlines (a) activities and associated prospective teacher’s learning outcomes, (b) applied theoretical constructs, and (c) key research findings. The model offers an actionable and structured framework for integrating Mathematics curriculum materials into teacher education and is discussed in relation to its implications for both practice and research.

Studien syftar till att undersöka förskollärares uppfattningar om användandet av digitala verktyg i förskolan. Den har genomförts med en fenomenografisk ansats och bygger på semistrukturerade intervjuer med sex förskollärare. Resultatet visar en variation i förskollärares uppfattningar om läroplansrevideringen gällande digitala verktyg. Fyra olika uppfattningar identifieras: Digitala verktyg ska inte användas alls, Osäkerhet kring digitala verktyg, Digitala verktyg ska enbart användas med 3ett pedagogiskt syfte och Positiv inställning. Uppfattningarna skiljer sig således åt i hög grad. Samtidigt framkommer det att digitala verktyg används i verksamheten, främst som ett komplement till analoga arbetssätt. De verktyg som används är bland annat lärplatta, projektor, dator, mobiltelefon och programmeringsverktyg, och framkommer i olika situationer såsom i undervisning, i rutiner samt som arbetsverktyg för förskollärarna. Detta visar att användningen av digitala verktyg är etablerad, samtidigt som det finns en motsägelse mellan förskollärarnas uppfattningar och deras faktiska användning. Studiens slutsats är att förskollärare behöver kontinuerligt utveckla sin digitala kompetens och göra medvetna pedagogiska val kring användningen av digitala verktyg. Det krävs även aktivt deltagande i kollegialt lärande och gemensamma reflektioner för att främja en likvärdig och medveten undervisning. 

Studien syftade till att undersöka hur förskollärare beskrev sitt handlingsutrymme i övergångar i förskolan, samt hur dessa kunde förstås som pedagogiska i relation till normer, strukturer och barns individuella behov. Utifrån iakttagelsen att övergångar hanteras som givna i vardagen, samtidigt som barns behov kräver flexibilitet, synliggjordes en spänning mellan organisatoriska ramar och individuella förutsättningar. Tidigare forskning har främst fokuserat på organisering, medan kunskap om förskollärares handlingsutrymme i dessa situationer är begränsad. Studien baserades på teorier om handlingsutrymme och den reflekterande praktikern, och genomfördes med semistrukturerade intervjuer med nio förskollärare. Resultatet visade att övergångar formas i ett samspel mellan ramar och barns behov. Där utrymmet för professionella bedömningar framträder som situerat och tar form genom tolkningar av styrdokument som omsätts i handling. Slutsatsen var att övergångar kan förstås som pedagogiska beroende på hur de utformas i relation till villkor, behov och professionellt omdöme.

Denna studie syftar till att undersöka hur förskollärare resonerar kring högläsning och hur deras högläsningsmetoder främjar barns språkliga utveckling. Studien är byggd på empiri som är insamlad via semistrukturerade intervjuer som spelats in och transkriberats. Arbetet vilar på det sociokulturella perspektivet och centrala begrepp har använts aktivt i arbetet för att beskriva vår empiri och vår analys. Resultatet visade varierade metoder och tillvägagångssätt vid högläsningen, där dialogisk högläsning och boksamtal var de främsta, återkommande strategierna för språklig stimulans. I slutsatsen redovisas resultaten vi kommit fram till utifrån våra forskningsfrågor. Den första delen behandlar hur dialogisk och didaktisk högläsning, boksamtal, bokplantering och rösten som verktyg varit centrala strategier vid högläsningsundervisning. Den andra delen belyser de utmaningar som uppstår i arbetet med högläsning, såsom stora barngrupper, åldersvariation och samarbete med vårdnadshavare samt hur barnen kan stöttas och vägledas i sitt lärande utifrån sina individuella behov.

Studien syftade till att undersöka vilka strategier och arbetssätt förskollärare använder i inkluderingsarbetet av barn i behov av särskilt stöd i stora barngrupper. En kvalitativ ansats har använts genom semistrukturerade intervjuer, med analys utifrån ekologisk systemteori och relationella perspektivet. Resultatet visade att inkluderingsarbetet i formas i det dagliga samspelet mellan förskollärare och barn, där anpassningar som gruppindelning och bildstöd används. Relationerna mellan förskollärare och barn i behov av särskilt stöd lyfts som avgörande för barns delaktighet i undervisning. Stora barngrupper anses tillföra både möjligheter och utmaningar i inkluderingsarbetet. Det kan skapa fler sociala relationer mellan barn men samtidigt försvåra möjligheten till jämlikt stöd, då barn riskerar att prioriteras olika. Vidare påverkas arbetet av mindre tid för gemensam planering, personaltäthet och tillgång till professionellt stöd. Samsyn i arbetslaget beskrivs som en viktig förutsättning som skapar trygghet och tydlighet. Studiens centrala slutsatser visar att inkludering i förskolan formas i relationer och dagligt samspel, samtidigt som inkluderingsarbetet begränsas av strukturella villkor. Därmed kräver inte inkludering enbart pedagogiska arbetssätt och strategier, utan även strukturella och organisatoriska förutsättningar som stödjer arbetet.

Background: Meeting patients who exhibit violent behavior is a difficult and complex task for nurses in psychiatric care. Experiences that nurses have had are mostly descriptions from a negative context but also experiences of being strengthened by these patient encounters. Furthermore, it is reported how nurses handle violent situations that arise, how their impact afterwards and how they view future based on their choice of profession. Aim: To describe nurses’ experiences of caring for patients with violent behavior in forensic psychiatric inpatient care. Method: The study has a qualitative design with an inductive approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten nurses at a forensic psychiatric clinic in central Sweden. Data was analyzed with a qualitative content analysis. Results: Nurses’ experiences are illustrated through five categories: Seeing the person behind the violence, Working preventively, Caring is challenging, Facing the violence and Being there for each other after a violent situation which show the importantance of the relationship. Conclusion: The care relationship is the most important tool for preventing patients from exhibiting violent behavior. 

Studiens syfte är att undersöka förskollärares arbete med och syn på lärmiljöer inomhus samt hur de uppfattar att dessa påverkar barns handlande i relation till lek, lärande och delaktighet. En kvalitativ metod användes, där semistrukturerade intervjuer genomfördes med sju förskollärare. Resultatet visar att förskollärare i hög grad anpassar lärmiljön efter barns behov och intressen, men att deras didaktiska val styr hur dessa möjligheter omsätts i praktiken. Materialets tillgänglighet och miljöns balans mellan struktur och öppenhet påverkar barns delaktighet och handlingsutrymme. Slutsatsen är att delaktighet uppstår i samspelet mellan barn, förskollärare och miljö. 

Studien syftar till att undersöka hur förskollärare organiserar undervisning i större barngrupper samt vilka möjligheter utmaningar och strategier som framträder i arbetet. Eftersom stora barngrupper är vanligt förekommande i förskolan identifierades ett behov av fördjupad kunskap om hur undervisnig formas i dessa sammanhang. Undersökningen bygger på en kvalitativ forskningsansats och datamaterialet samlades in genom semistrukturerade intervjuer med sex förskollärare. Studien tar sin utgångspunkt i ett fenomenologi perspektiv. Resultatet visar att undervisning organiseras genom uppdelning i mindre grupper, tydlig struktur och planering. Det framkommer både möjligheter och utmaningar, där barns sampel framträder som en resurs, medan svårigheter handlar om att räcka till för alla barn, hantera ljudnivå och skapa arbetsro. Slutsatsen är att undervisning i större barngrupper är mjölig att genomföra, men kräver ett medvetet och strukturerat pedagogiskt arbete där förskollärares kompetens och strategier är avgörande. 

Background: Standardized diagnostic interviews are essential tools for accurate assessment in child and adolescent psychiatry (CAP). However, many existing interviews are restricted by licensing costs, platform dependencies, limited clinical adaptability, or legal ambiguity regarding digital implementation. To address these limitations, the Electronic Psychiatric Semi-structured Interview for Children and Adolescents (EPSI-C) was developed as an open-access, platform-independent instrument aligned with the DSM-5. The modular structure, comprising 22 modules covering the full range of common psychiatric disorders, allows for both systematic and targeted administration. This instrument development and psychometric validation study evaluated the content validity and internal consistency of the EPSI-C. Methods: Content validity was assessed by ten independent experts who rated the relevance of the instrument for assessing DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Additionally, experts rated six global aspects of clinical utility. Internal consistency was examined in a large naturalistic sample of 3,506 patients (mean age = 12.0 years, SD = 3.2, range 5–18 years; 54.5% girls) assessed with a digital implementation of the EPSI-C during routine outpatient CAP assessments in Sweden. Results: The EPSI-C demonstrated excellent scale-level average content validity for both the screening sections (S-CVI/Ave = 0.95) and full modules (S-CVI/Ave = 0.94). Expert consensus was high (90–100%) regarding overall clinical utility. Internal consistency was acceptable to excellent (α range 0.71 – 0.90) for 87.5% of eligible modules. Lower consistency was observed for modules assessing psychotic disorders (α = 0.53) and anorexia nervosa (α = 0.49), reflecting limited DSM-5 criteria and sub-threshold presentations. Conclusions: The findings support the foundational psychometric properties of the EPSI-C and indicate its clinical feasibility within a high-volume, naturalistic CAP outpatient setting. The current study establishes content validity and internal consistency, while criterion validity remains to be evaluated. As an open-access, modular instrument, EPSI-C offers a scalable solution for the digital implementation of standardized diagnostic interviews in routine clinical practice.

Background: Patients describe extensive psychological suffering and loss of control over their lives, where an empathic approach from healthcare professionals can contribute to safety and hope. Meanwhile, relatives describe worry, responsibility and need for involvement in care. Nurses play a central role in patients’ recovery, while care is influenced by organizational conditions. Aim: To describe nurses’ experiences of providing care for suicidal patients in acute psychiatric care. Method: A qualitative design with an inductive approach was applied. Ten semi-structured interviews with nurses were conducted and analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results: The analysis resulted in twelve subcategories, five categories, and one overarching theme. The categories were: 1) Being influenced by organizational factors on care, 2) Establishing a relationship, 3) Being responsible for the patient’s life, 4) Supporting the patient’s continued path forward, 5) Being emotionally affected and in need of support. The overall theme was Bearing responsibility in a complex and constrained care context. Conclusion: Nurses experience that time with patients is crucial for creating trusting relationships, while high workload limits this. The care of suicidal patients is complex and emotionally demending, yet the work is also experienced as meaningful.  

Background: Light sedation is recommended for invasive mechanical ventilation, which means more awake patients in intensive care units. Intensive care nurses and relatives describe the care of these patients as complex. They highlight advantages such as increased participation and the opportunity for early mobilization but also disadvantages in the form of anxiety and increased motor activity. Aim: To create an overview of patients' experiences of being awake or slightly sedated in invasive mechanical ventilation. Method: A qualitative literature review based on nineteen scientific articles. Searches were conducted in CINAHL Plus and PubMed. The analysis followed inductive content analysis according to Elo and Kyngäs (2008). Results: The analysis resulted in three categories with nine subcategories: multidimensional suffering, the striving to preserve autonomy and communicative interaction. The patients described multidimensional suffering, communication difficulties and loss of control, but also security when the intensive care nurse was present, responsive and supportive. Alertness enabled participation but at the same time reinforced vulnerability. Conclusion: The patients were in a complex borderland between increased participation and increased vulnerability. They experienced pain, discomfort, and frustration over limited communication. The results show that effective communication and the experience of safety are central to reducing suffering and strengthening the participation of patients in intensive care units.

The technological advancements in automation industries try to paint a picture of automation technologies being easy and effective despite the complexities involved in the system. Unlike objective complexity, which can be quantified through structural or process metrics, the development of technology introduces an additional layer of complexity that is sometimes abstract and difficult to understand. Hence, the concept of perceived complexity comes into picture. The objective of this paper is to conceptualize and analyze the human experience of complexity within manufacturing automation contexts. As industries continue to evolve toward higher levels of automation and digitalization, there is a growing need for solutions that can balance technological advancement with human comprehension and usability. One promising approach to address these challenges is smart and portable automation on demand, a paradigm that integrates mobility, intelligence, and flexibility to respond to dynamic manufacturing requirements. This concept is currently being advanced within the Mälardalen University Automation Research Center (MARC), which drives digitalization and automation research in close collaboration with industrial partners.

The complexity of automation creates a barrier between humans and machines, hindering the full realization of Industry 5.0’spotential. It is often caused by the intricate integration of modern production environments with digital technologies. Reducing theperceived complexity of automation systems is challenging. There have been several studies providing insights on how complexityin such contexts can be addressed. However, such studies remain rather disparate. Meanwhile, understanding the sources of complexityis becoming increasingly important due to the growing introduction of digital technologies, which add yet another layer ofcomplexity. Indeed, little work has been conducted to bring together the various sources of complexity. In this paper, we identifykey sources of complexity in automated systems by synthesizing insights from relevant literature and discussions with industrialpartners engaged in addressing these challenges. Our primary contribution is a matrix that maps commonly encountered sources ofcomplexity, their impacts, and their links to existing literature, complemented by perspectives from our industrial partners, gatheredthrough a series of workshops.

In today’s competitive industrial environment, characterized by diversecustomer demands and an increasing need for rapid adaptation, the ability toquickly and efficiently relocate manufacturing capacity to different locations hasbecome crucial. This paper introduces the concept of Cloneable AutomationSystems which are automation systems specifically designed for easy and efficientduplication of both functionality and physical structure. These systems aredistinguished by their capability to swiftly embed and relocate automationcapacity within a corporation, with minimal undesirable effects in terms of time,effort, cost, or performance. The research presented in this paper has beenconducted within the framework of the Mälardalen University AutomationResearch Center (MARC), which is committed to advancing digitalization andautomation in industry through a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach andstrong industrial partnerships. The expected scientific contributions of theresearch include the development of innovative solutions in smart and portableautomation, robotics and control, as well as digital infrastructure. The maincontribution of this paper is the framing of a Cloneable Automation Systemconcept based on a case study within a global manufacturing company. The paperidentifies industrial needs and development areas related to enhancing thepossibilities for reusability and relocation of automation systems.

Traditional industrial robot automation is often fixed, and they have enabled increased competitiveness, but often lack the agility required for dynamic manufacturing environments. Building on research projects such as Factory-in-a-Box and Lean robotics, the purpose of the paper is to introduce the concept of smart and portable automation systems, a vision for modern manufacturing that emphasizes the need for scalable, movable, and reconfigurable automation solutions. The concept of smart and portable automation systems refers to advanced robotic systems that combine intelligent, data-driven capabilities with enhanced mobility and adaptability, allowing for flexible and reconfigurable operations. A collaborative and interactive research approach has been applied in a research project with three participating manufacturing companies. Based on the manufacturing companies’ automation challenges and proposed use cases for smart and portable automation the goal with the research project is to develop demonstrators that show cases smart and portable automation. In this paper a smart and portable automation system refers to “an automation system with a low degree of perceived complexity that can be easily moved and easily meet dynamic manufacturing needs.

Background: Non-specific low back pain is a common cause of disability globally. In the case of long-term problems, rehabilitation aims not only at pain reduction but also at strengthening the individual's function and ability to cope with everyday life despite persistent pain. Exercise-based interventions are recommended as first-line treatment. Psychological factors, such as pain-related self-efficacy, have been shown to be important for rehabilitation outcomes, but knowledge of how different forms of exercise affect this factor is limited.  

Objective: To describe how pain-related self-efficacy is affected by strength training in relation to other exercise-based physiotherapeutic interventions in adults with non-specific low back pain, from a biopsychosocial perspective.  

Method: A systematic literature review was conducted in the databases PubMed and PEDro. Randomized controlled trials that included adults with non-specific low back pain and reported outcomes regarding pain self-efficacy were included. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed according to SBU's review templates and the results were compiled narratively.  

Results: Five studies were included. All studies showed improvements in pain-related self-efficacy over time, with no clear differences between strength training and comparative interventions.  

Conclusion: Exercise-based interventions, including strength training, can contribute to improved pain-related self-efficacy. The results underline the importance of taking biopsychosocial factors into account in the rehabilitation process. 

Keywords: Exercise-based interventions, non-specific low back pain, pain-related self-efficacy, physiotherapy, strength training. 

Background: Previous research shows that the transition from child and adolescent psychiatric clinics to adult psychiatric clinics is often fragmented and not person‑centred, leading to care interruptions and poorer well‑being. Transitions are often experienced negatively by young adults but can also be positive as autonomy increases and it may feel like a fresh start. Nurses have a central role, but their possibilities are limited by lack of collaboration and resources. Aim: To describe how nurses at adult psychiatric clinics experience young adults’ transition from child and adolescent psychiatric clinics. Method: A qualitative design with an inductive approach was used. Semi‑structured interviews with ten nurses at adult psychiatric clinics were conducted. Data was analysed with qualitative content analysis. Results: Three categories emerged: To see and meet young adults’ needs, To handle relatives’ challenges and resources, and That organizational factors influence, along with ten subcategories. The theme To fight to build a bridge together also emerged. Conclusion: Nurses experience the transition as characterized by care gaps, lack of information, and varying maturity levels that affect young adults’ independence. Nurses have a central role and wish to involve relatives. Organizational factors influence their ability to contribute to a safe and person‑centred transition.

Keywords: Nurses, Psychiatric outpatient care, qualitative content analysis, The tidal model, transition.

Background: Sleep is a fundamental component of recovery for patients admitted to intensive care units. However, research shows that critically ill patients often experience disturbed and fragmented sleep, which can negatively affect both physiological and psychological functions. The intensive care environment is complex, characterized by advanced medical technology, continuous monitoring, and frequent nursing interventions, all of which may contribute to sleep disturbances. At the same time, there is a lack of a comprehensive understanding of the factors affecting sleep from the patient’s perspective. 

Aim: To describe, from the patient’s perspective, patient-related, environmental, and care-related factors influencing sleep among intensive care patients.

 Method: This study was conducted as an integrative literature review based on 22 scientific articles with both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The data were analyzed using an integrated analysis method according to Friberg (2022). 

Results: The findings are presented in three main themes: “Environmental factors”, “Care-related factors”, and “Patient-related factors”. Environmental factors such as noise and light were identified as major contributors to sleep disturbances. Care-related factors, including nursing interventions and ventilator treatment, led to frequent sleep interruptions. Patient-related factors such as pain, stress, and anxiety were also identified as significant, affecting both sleep initiation and continuity. 

Conclusion: Sleep among intensive care patients is influenced by a complex interaction of multiple factors. Promoting sleep and recovery requires a holistic approach where environmental conditions, nursing care, and individual patient needs are considered. Intensive care nurses play a crucial role in identifying and minimizing sleep-disrupting factors and in creating conditions that support improved sleep quality.

This study examines how creativity and idea development function within an innovation group. The focus is on how the creative environment is shaped and how this environment influences whether ideas are developed further or remain at the discussion stage.

The study is a qualitative case study of the innovation group at Samarkand2015, a regional development organisation in Sweden. Data were collected through four semi-structured interviews with members of the innovation group and one workshop in which the group’s collaborative work was explored. The material was analysed using thematic analysis,with interview and workshop data analysed together.

The results show that the innovation group is characterised by an open and supportive environment where ideas are shared through dialogue and interaction. Trust, openness and psychological safety are important conditions for creativity and idea sharing. At the same time, the study shows that idea development is limited by a lack of clear structures for evaluating, selecting and developing ideas further. As a result, many ideas remain at the discussion stage and are not developed further. The study concludes that both social interaction and clear structural support are necessary for creativity to lead to innovation.

This thesis investigates Link-State control plane underlays in MP-BGP EVPN-VXLAN architectures for Datacenter, Enterprise, and Service Provider networks. The work studies common open-source and closed-source SDN platform solutions to identify the prevalence of Link-State underlays, common use-cases, and best practices regarding implementation of an underlay network. For practical knowledge, and a comparison of complexity with implementation, the work explores methods for automated provisioning of IS-IS and OSPF underlays in a controlled laboratory environment.

The experiments focus on comparing the complexity of implementation of IS-IS and OSPF as the underlay network routing protocol with the agent-less open-source automation tool Ansible, selected for its ease-of-use, in conjunction with Cisco Nexus OS PowerOn Auto Provisioning (POAP). The results of the work provide insights into common and best practices for Link-State underlay networks in MP-BGP EVPN-VXLAN and highlighting applicability with automation tools.

Background: Children as next of kin are affected when a relative is treated in an intensive care unit, yet their needs are at risk of being neglected. From a family-centered perspective and in accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, children should be regarded as part of the family system and be provided with information and support. Research illuminates the central role of intensive care nurses, but also a lack of organizational guidelines. Aim: To describe intensive care nurses’ experiences of encountering children as next of kin in intensive care units. Method: A qualitative interview study with an inductive approach was conducted. Ten intensive care nurses from two intensive care units in Sweden were included through strategic sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using qualitative content analysis according to Graneheim and Lundman (2004). Results: Two categories emerged; enabling children’s presence and factors influencing encounters with children as next of kin. Communication, nurses' approach, and environment were adapted to the child’s individual needs. Experience and the absence of guidelines influenced the nurses’ approach. Conclusion: Encounters with children as next of kin are complex and emotional. The study emphasizes the need for organizational guidelines and education to reduce individual responsibility and promote equitable and family-centered care in intensive care settings.

Syftet med denna studie var att undersöka vilka svårigheter studenter med neuropsykiatriska funktionsnedsättningar upplever i högre utbildning samt vilka förutsättningar i lärmiljön som upplevs som stödjande. Studien genomfördes med en kvalitativ metod baserad på semistrukturerade intervjuer med studenter med NPF - diagoser. Det insamlade materialet analyserades med tematisk analys. Resultaten visar att studenterna upplever betydande utmaningar kopplade till krav på självreglering, planering, socialt samspel och hantering av sensoriska intryck. Svårigheterna förstås i hög grad som relaterade till hur undervisningen och lärmiljön är organiserad snarare än till bristande akademisk förmåga. Vidare framkommer att tydlighet, struktur och pedagogiskt engagemang är centrala förutsättningar för lärande. Studien indikerar därmed att en mer tillgängligt utformad lärmiljö kan minska behovet av individuella kompensatoriska strategier och bidra till mer jämlika studievillkor i högre utbildning.

This thesis explores attitudes towards digital marketing from a consumer's perspective. The authors decided to use the platforme YouTube as a demarcation for the thesis. The thesis utilizes theories such as “YouTube marketing”, “Consumers behaviour” and “Attitudes”. The collecting of data comes primarily from three focus groups. The secondary data was collected from previous investigations towards digital marketing. The research showed that the majority of the  consumers had a negative attitude towards advertisement but not towards the companies.

Bakgrund: Patienter med reumatisk sjukdom har ofta kontakt med fysioterapeuter inom specialistsjukvården. Efter en period av övervakad träning övergår ansvaret i regel till patienten för fortsatt hemträning. Det innebär ett större ansvar för patienten att självständigt planera och genomföra ordinationen. Detta för att förebygga funktionsnedsättning och minska sjukdomsbesvär. Det finns vetenskapligt stöd för att fysisk aktivitet och hemträning både kan förebygga och minska symtom vid reumatisk sjukdom. Däremot är kunskapen mer begränsad kring hur följsamhet till den egna hemträningen kan främjas.

Syfte: Syftet med studien var att undersöka patienters upplevelser av följsamhet till hemträning vid reumatisk sjukdom.

Metod: Kvalitativ deskriptiv design med semistrukturerade intervjuer. Sex patienter med reumatisk sjukdom inkluderades i studien. Kvalitativ innehållsanalys med induktiv ansats användes som analysmetod.

Resultat: Analysen resulterade i 9 underkategorier indelade i 4 kategorier: Socialt stöd som möjliggör kontinuitet till hemträning, Anpassning av hemträning vid föränderlig sjukdom, Genomförbarhet av hemträning och programmets utformning samt Upplevda förbättringar formar motivation och genomförande.

Slutsats: Resultaten visar att följsamhet påverkas av ett samspel mellan socialt stöd, individuell symptomtolkning, motivation och flexibilitet i träningsupplägget, där variation i symtom har en påverkan. Det tyder på vikten av att utforma samt följa upp hemträning utefter hela individen, dess omgivning samt förutsättningar.

Date: [2024-05-29]

Level: Bachelor thesis in Business Administration, 15 cr

Institution: School of Business, Society and Engineering, Mälardalen University

Authors: Birgitta Lövgren & Thereze Almkvist

Title: The Impact of Sustainability Signals on Profitability.

Supervisor: Aija Voitkane

Keywords: CSR, Sustainability reporting, profitability, sustainable development, signaling theory, correlation, ESG

Research questions:- How does sustainability signaling in environmental, social, and economic areas contribute toprofitability?- What other factors influence the correlation between sustainability signaling and profitability?

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to nuance the understanding of the relationship between profitability and sustainabilitysignals.

Method: The study has examined the correlation between profitability and sustainability signaling using data from annualreports and sustainability reports. The data has then been analyzed using regression analysis.

Conclusion: The study has found a positive correlation between ROA and the number of years the companies have beensustainability reporting.

The study aims to explore and analyze whether factors such as originality, quality, quantity, humor, hedonic experience, and opinion leadership influence TikTok users’ intention to follow an influencer’s account or advice. Additionally, the study examines whether the intention to follow an account or advice can lead to purchase intention. Furthermore, the study aims to refine and deepen the discussion around quality and quantity to provide a more nuanced understanding of these concepts. The study employs a quantitative research method with a deductive approach. Primary data was collected through a survey answered by 216 respondents. The findings indicate that opinion leadership exerts the strongest influence on the intention to follow an account and its advice, with a greater impact on following advice. Originality and hedonic experience are recognized as significant factors influencing the intention to follow an account. The study reveals that the intention to follow advice does not directly affect purchase intention, while the intention to follow an account has a modest effect. Additionally, following an account increases the likelihood of following the influencer’s advice. The analysis also highlights a relationship between quantity and quality by following an account or its advice, although this relationship is less pronounced than other constructs. 

The purpose of this study is to examine the factors that influence the customer experience at Lindex, focusing on comparing the experience in the company's e-commerce and physical stores in Sweden. By identifying the differences and similarities in customer experience between the two channels, the study aims to provide insights that can help Lindex improve the overall shopping experience for customers. The study employs an abductive research approach and a qualitative research method. Primary data is collected through semi-structured interviews with ten women who have shopped at Lindex within the past three months. A thematic analysis was conducted to systematically organize the data, enabling the identification of codes and various themes. The results of the study show that e-commerce offers convenience and efficiency but lacks sensory experiences and certain product information. Physical stores provide a personal and sensory experience but can be perceived as time-consuming and limited in range. Younger consumers prefer e-commerce, while older consumers prefer physical stores.

The goal of the study is to present a thorough knowledge of how tiered-based loyalty programs impact the food and beverage, retail, financial services, and hospitality and travel industries. This study found that tiered-based loyalty programs help to retain customers in retail, hospitality and travel, financial service, and food and beverage industries by increasing the customer's perceived value, satisfaction, and emotional engagement if executed properly. Otherwise, major problems in execution lead to customer attrition. 

Puroise: The purpose of the thesis is to analyse how AI-based decision

support, with a focus on Copilot in Outlook, can influence

decision-making ability in relation to the theories of bounded

rationality, decision support systems, and hybrid intelligence.

Method: Methodologically, the study is based on a qualitative document

analysis of Microsoft’s presentation of Copilot in Outlook,

complemented by triangulation with independent scientific

sources. Through a thematic analysis grounded in an abductive

approach, the thesis alternates between empirical data and

theory to answer the research questions.

Conclusion: The conclusions show that Copilot in Outlook can positively

influence decision-makers' decision-making ability through

cognitive relief, time savings, prioritization support, and

streamlined information management, but also negatively

through reduced autonomy and overdependence. Therefore,

the thesis emphasizes that Copilot in Outlook should not be

seen as a replacement, but rather as a complement.

 ABSTRACT Date:                                                           2026-01-15Level:                                                         Bachelor/Master thesis in Business Administration, 15 crInstitution:                                             School of Business, Society and Engineering, Mälardalen UniversityAuthors:                                                   Marcus Rosenkvist                                                                                                                                                                                      99/05/23                                           Title: ”Between control and enabling: Controllers' view of the role of BI systems in decision-making”Supervisor: Michaël Le Duc

Keywords: BI, enabling system, coercive systemResearch questions:1. How do controllers perceive that BI systems support or limit their decision-making?2. How do controllers perceive that BI systems affect their understanding and learning about the business and their professional development at work?Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore how controllers perceive that Business Intelligence (BI) systems enable or constrain their decision-making, understanding of the business, and professional development. The study analyzes controllers' experiences of BI systems in relation to enabling and coercive system design. Method: The study applies a qualitative research design with an iterative analytic logic. The empirical material was collected through semi-structured interviews with controllers in organizations where BI systems are central to financial management. The material was first analyzed data-near through open coding and thematic development, and was subsequently interpreted in a theory-informed manner using enabling and coercive system design and prior research on BI, decision-making, and the controller role. Conclusion: The study's results show that BI systems can function as both enabling and limiting tools in the work of controllers. When the systems are characterized by transparency, flexibility and good data quality, they strengthen decision-making, business understanding and professional autonomy. At the same time, lack of integration, low data trust and strong use of controls can create limitations in the value creation of the systems. The study thus underlines that the effects of BI systems are largely shaped by their design, use and organizational context.

ABSTRACT Date: 2026-01-15 Level: Bachelor thesis in Business Administration, 15 cr Institution: School of Business, Society and Engineering, Mälardalen University Authors: Kajsa Uhlin  Mikaela Jokela Title: “Training Loyalty. A qualitative study on how fitness companies create customer loyalty through marketing” Supervisor: Michaël Le Duc Keywords: Customer loyalty, relationship marketing, fitness industry, engagement, brand community Research question: How do companies in the fitness industry work to create customer loyalty through their marketing strategies? Purpose: The purpose of this study is to explore how companies in the fitness industry work with marketing strategies to create and maintain customer loyalty in a competitive and digitalized market. Method: The study adopts a qualitative, deductive research approach based on a theoretical framework within relationship marketing and customer loyalty. Empirical data were collected through five semi-structured interviews with marketing and CRM managers at four established fitness chains in Sweden and analyzed using thematic analysis. Conclusion: The findings show that customer loyalty in the fitness industry is created as a relational process where marketing, service delivery, and customer experience are closely integrated. Loyalty develops over time through trust, engagement, community-building activities, and authentic communication, while digital tools and incentive structures function as supportive mechanisms rather than primary drivers of long-term loyalty. 

Research questions:

What is the relationship between Generation Z's intention to boycott fast-fashion brands vs. their actual buying behaviour?

Purpose: 

The purpose of this study is to examine whether Generation Z  consumers’ ethical intentions to boycott unethical fast-fashion brands translate into actual reduced purchasing behaviour and to identify the key factors that explain the persistence of the intention–behaviour gap.

Method: 

A quantitative survey of Generation Z consumers in Sweden was conducted and analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and hierarchical multiple regression.   

Conclusion:    

The findings confirm a clear intention–behaviour gap. Continued fast-fashion consumption is mainly driven by practical barriers, while personal moral responsibility plays a key role in behavioural consistency. Social influence and political consumerism show limited direct effects.

Date: 2025.06.04

Level: Bachelor thesis in Business Administration, 15 cr

Institution: School of Business, Society and Engineering, Mälardalen University

Authors: Darshana Hewa Dewage      Subhani Warahena Liyanage        Zolaikha Zawarali

                          (86/09/10)                         (89/06/14)                                    (88/11/17)

Title: The Impact of Cultural Diversity on Team Performance and knowledge sharing in a Multinational Industrial Organization in Sweden

Supervisor: Aziza Al Ghafri

Keywords: Cultural diversity, team performance, multicultural teams, organizational support, social grouping

Research questions: What impact does cultural diversity have on team performance and knowledge sharing in a Swedish multinational industrial organization?

Purpose: This research aims to examine the role of cultural diversity on how ABC’s Swedish teams perform and share knowledge using the guidelines of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions and knowledge-based theory.

Method: The research is a single case study which conducts a qualitative methodology with sixteen semi-structured interviews including twelve employees and four managers. Research has an abductive thematic approach.

Conclusion: On the one hand, cultural diversity causes a number of challenges. On the other hand, diversity results in adding value through additional viewpoints, increased creativity, and complex multi-perspective and innovative problem-solving frameworks especially for demanding tasks. Cultural diversity offers complex challenges and opportunities for teams. With the right structure and approach, organizations can manage these challenges and harness diversity as a source of power and competitive edge in the context of globalization.

Background: Digitalization in healthcare has become central to nurses and influences their daily practice. Digital tools and e‑health can improve and streamline workflows, documentation, administrative tasks, patient safety, and strengthen patient participation. At the same time, research shows that digitalization can create obstacles and challenges for nurses in their daily work. Aim: To describe nurses’ experiences of digitalization in healthcare. Method: A general litterature review was conducted according to Friberg. Database searches were performed in CINAHL Plus, PubMed, and MEDLINE. Ten scientific articles were selected for the thesis based on their relevance to the aim. Results: The result shows that digital tools have a positive impact on nurses practice by facilitating documentation, workflows, and creating additional channels of communication with patients while digital incompetence and technological barriers can negatively affect person‑centred care. Conclusion: Digitalization has several positive aspects that strengthen nursing practice, improve workflows, and enhance patient safety. However, lack of digital competence, technological barriers, affects the person‑centred care negative and creates challenges for nurses. For a sustainable digital future, nurses need continuous training to improve their digital competence, as well as reliable and user‑friendly digital systems within healthcare.

Background: Globally, nearly 10 million new cases of dementia are diagnosed each year. People with dementia have an increased risk of eating difficulties and malnutrition, which can negatively affect health, quality of life and dignity. Therefore, it is important that healthcare professionals have knowledge of nursing interventions that promote adequate nutrition in people with dementia. Aim: To describe nursing interventions aimed at maintaining nutrition in persons with dementia. Method: A general literature review was conducted, including 15 nursing science articles, of which 9 were quantitative and 6 qualitative. Results: Similarities and differences in aim, method and results were identified. Four themes emerged: to work person-centred to promote nutrition, to adapt the mealtime environment to promote nutrition, to act professionally to promote nutrition and to strengthen the independence at mealtimes to promote nutrition. The results highlight that nutrition-promoting nursing care can reduce illness-, care-and life-related suffering by creating participation, dignity and meaningful mealtime experiences. Conclusion: Persons with dementia require an adapted mealtime environment in which the physical surroundings are designed to stimulate the senses and promote social interaction. The findings highlight the importance of an individualized mealtime environment to support and maintain health and quality of life in persons with dementia.

Purpose: This study investigates how internal and external insulation affect the energy

performance of an existing multifamily building from the Swedish Million Programme era.

The aim is to evaluate how different insulation materials and thicknesses influence the

building’s energy use, heating demand, and compliance with the requirements of BBR 29.

Method: Dynamic energy simulations were conducted using IDA ICE 5.0. A detailed

building model was created and calibrated against measured data from the building’s energy

declaration to ensure realistic operating conditions. Three insulation materials—mineral

wool, expanded polystyrene (EPS), and polyisocyanurate (PIR)—were analysed in different

thicknesses (50, 100, and 150 mm). Both internal and external insulation scenarios were

evaluated. The study also examined the impact of increased window area and solar gains on

the building’s energy balance.

Results: The results indicate that all insulation measures reduce the building’s energy use,

with external insulation providing the most significant improvement. The greatest reduction

was achieved with 100 mm PIR insulation, which decreased total energy demand by

approximately 23% compared to the reference case. Increasing insulation thickness beyond

100 mm resulted in diminishing returns. Internal insulation showed lower energy savings

and introduced higher risks related to moisture and thermal bridges. The analysis also

showed that increased window area alone had minimal impact on heating demand, as higher

transmission losses were offset by solar gains. However, when combined with insulation,

solar gains contributed to improved energy performance.

Conclusion: External insulation is identified as the most effective and reliable strategy for

improving energy performance in the studied building. A thickness of approximately 100 mm

provides an optimal balance between energy savings and material efficiency. The study

highlights the importance of considering insulation, solar gains, and building envelope

performance as an integrated system. Properly calibrated simulation models, such as IDA

ICE, are shown to be valuable tools for evaluating energy efficiency measures in existing

buildings.

Background: Malnutrition and dehydration are common among older patients with dementia and affect both health and well-being. Dementia can complicate the mealtime situation by impairing the ability to express needs, interpret sensory input, and participate in meals independently. Previous research highlights that participation, social support, clear information, and an adapted mealtime environment are central nursing aspects for promoting nutrition in this patient group. Laws and guidelines further emphasize the importance of person-centered care, autonomy and safe nutritional care, making the nurse´s role particularly significant. Purpose: was to describe nurses' experience of nutritional care for older patients with dementia. Method: A literature review with descriptive synthesis, where the results were based on 11 qualitative articles. Result: The analysis of the results generated two main themes, with the first theme being: Barriers to High-Quality Nutritional Care”, which was divided in two sub-themes: “Patient- and Organization-Related Challenges” and” Challenges Related to Food design and Presentation”. The second theme,” Facilitating and Supporting factors for High-Quality Nutritional Care” was divided into two sub-themes:” Competence, Collaboration and Patient Participation” and” Support, Interaction and Adaptation”. Conclusion: The autonomy and participation of the patient emerged as essential factors for promoting nutritional intake among older adults with dementia. 

Machine learning is increasingly called upon to guide decisionsin critical industrial applications. Its predictive powerpromises gains in efficiency, yet its black-box nature and lackof guarantees pose risks in contexts where behavior must remainanalyzable and safe. This thesis asks how machine learning can bemade trustworthy, explainable, and efficient enough for engineersto deploy in practice. Three gaps hamper broader adoption. Few works provide formal orstatistical guarantees on ML outputs paired with explanationsthat engineers can act on (Gap~A). Data-driven models thatgeneralize across hardware configurations without retrainingremain rare, and existing simulators are prohibitively slow(Gap~B). Many contributions address individual components ofindustrially motivated problems without combining them intovalidated end-to-end pipelines (Gap~C). To address Gap~A, we apply abstraction to neural networks,showing that inputs with negligible effect on the output can beformally identified and removed, producing simpler yet boundedmodels open to verification. We then introduce a conformalprediction framework for CPU load forecasting that providesstatistically guaranteed coverage intervals, combined withShapley value analysis to trace individual task contributions tothe predicted load. To address Gap~B, we develop a data-drivencache memory surrogate using long short-term memory networks,reproducing cache miss distributions across unseen hardwareconfigurations at a fraction of the simulator's computationalcost. To address Gap~C, we present HASCO, a Hybrid AI SimulationCompiler that translates natural language accident reports intoexecutable vehicular simulation scenarios through a structuredcompilation approach with deterministic validation. Together, these contributions establish a path toward machinelearning that is not merely powerful but trustworthy, explainable,and practically deployable in the industrial workflow.

Krav på obligatorisk hållbarhetsrapportering enligt EU:s direktiv CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) har införlivats i svensk lagstiftning från och med år 2024. Införandet beräknades få stora konsekvenser i många kommunalt ägda bolag och koncerner som skulle komma att omfattas av rapporteringskravet. Situationen har dock förändrats efter att EU i början av 2025 presenterade ”Omnibus-paketet”, en akut åtgärd i syfte att minska företagens administrativa börda, som innebär att svensk lagstiftning återigen måste ändras. Införandet av CSRD, liksom uppskjutandet och förändringarna under den pågående processen, har medfört en osäkerhetssituation för de kommunalt ägda bolagen. I forskningsprojektet har analyser genomförts för att kartlägga vilka kommunalt ägda bolag och koncerner som omfattas av CSRD, både utifrån det ursprungliga direktivet och med hänsyn till de lättnader som har föreslagits i Omnibus paketet. I projektet identifieras även vad de kommunalt ägda bolagen behöver rapportera, där genomlysningen av verksamheterna utifrån den så kallade dubbla väsentlighetsanalysen till stor del styr vad som anses vara väsentligt att rapportera. Inom ramen för projektet belyses även vilka strategiska val kommunalt ägda bolag gör i förhållande till CSRD-rapporteringen, som exempelvis rationalisering av innehållet i rapporterna med avseende på relevans och hanterbarhet, att rapporteringen koncentreras till kommunkoncernernas moderbolag, samt att styrningen av processen kan ske centraliserat eller mer decentraliserat. Även om många kommunkoncerner har lagt ner ett omfattande arbete på förberedelserna inför CSRD-rapporteringen, så skjuter så gott som samtliga nu upp rapporteringen i den mån det är möjligt.

Background: Chronic non-specific low back pain is a common condition and a leading cause of pain and functional disability among people of working age. The condition is understood from a biopsychosocial perspective, in which both physical and psychological factors contribute to the persistence of pain. Consequently, international clinical guidelines recommend combined treatment approaches involving physical exercise and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). However, evidence regarding the effects of such combined interventions within physiotherapy practice remains limited.

Purpose: To investigate whether physical exercise combined with CBT principles is more effective than physical exercise alone in adults with chronic non-specific low back pain

Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using the databases PubMed and PEDro. Quality was assessed using the SBU risk-of-bias tool RoB 2. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the SBU GRADE system.

Results: Six RCT-studies were included. Improvements in pain intensity, functional disability, and fear of movement were observed in both intervention and control groups. Significant differences in favor of combined treatment were reported in three studies for pain intensity and fear of movement, and in two studies for functional disability, while two studies found no significant differences. Overall, the level of evidence was assessed as moderate.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that physical exercise combined with CBT-based components delivered within physiotherapy may be beneficial compared to physical exercise alone; however, the evidence is limited and further research is needed.

Background: Sport-related concussions pose a significant risk for athletes, and their incidence has increased substantially in recent years. Returning to sport after a concussion is often characterized by complex experiences that may complicate the process. From a social cognitive theory perspective, factors such as the athlete’s self-efficacy may influence these experiences. Physiotherapists play a central role in providing support and knowledge during rehabilitation and can thereby potentially shape the athlete’s overall experience of the process. Despite this, research remains limited regarding how rehabilitation shapes athletes’ experiences and how these experiences, in turn, influence the return to sport.   

Aim: The aim of the study was to explore how athletes experienced the influence of rehabilitation on their perceptions of returning to sport after a sport-related concussion.

Method: Qualitative design with inductive content analysis using semi-structured interviews was applied. Six athletes with experience of sport-related concussion were interviewed.  

Results: The data analysis derived 11 subcategories and 3 categories; Mental and emotional barriers that influence the return, The importance of social support and structure, and Internal recourses and driving forces that facilitate the return.

Conclusion: The results show that athletes experience the rehabilitation process as influencing their perceptions during return to sport after a sport-related concussion, through both supportive and hindering psychosocial factors. 

Understanding the role of embodiment in learning is crucial as it highlights the importance of physical interaction in educational settings, particularly for young children. This study reveals that while toddlers predominantly use their bodies to engage with new technologies, teachers tend to rely on verbal communication, leading to a proposed model that emphasizes the dynamic interplay between embodied actions and language in educational interactions.

Med en diskursanalytisk ansats och utifrån ett kritiskt djurrättsligt perspektiv undersöks LRFs sponsrade läromedel Bonden i skolan (https://www.bondeniskolan.se). Syftet är att öka förståelsen för vad LRFs läromedel förmedlar om mjölkproduktion och djurhållning med hjälp av läromedlet. Den övergripande genren för att kommunicera har studien identifierat som reklam paketerad som läromedel, maskerad av läroboksgenren, opinionsgenren, humorgenren och barnboksgenren. Studien visar vidare att det finns tre framträdande diskurser i läromedlet, djurskyddskiskursen, den nationella diskursen och produktionsdiskursen där djurskyddsdiskursen är den dominerande. Eftersom djurskyddsdiskursen är speciesistisk så reproducerar läromedlet synsättet att människor står över de andra djuren. Någon motbild till den hegemoniska djurskyddsdiskursen framträder inte. I en avslutande reflektion föreslås att skolpersonal även ska erbjuda eleverna en alternativ djursyn i förhållande till det studerade läromedlet och rent generellt vara kritiska till sponsrade läromedel, särskilt från aktörer som har ett högt förtroende i samhället. 

Studien syftar till att undersöka hur förskollärare utformar och använder den fysiska inomhusmiljön för att möjliggöra barns lärande, samt vilka resurser och utmaningar som påverkar detta arbete. Vi har inspirerats av teorin agentiell realism och ett intra-aktivt pedagogiskt arbetssätt och genomfört åtta semistrukturerade intervjuer med förskollärare. Resultatet visar att förskollärare ser den fysiska inomhusmiljön som betydelsefull för barnen, men att de inte alltid uttryckligen kopplar den till barns lärande. Material, möblering och rummens utformning påverkar hur miljön används av barn och vuxna. Förskollärare balanserar mellan att utforma miljön utifrån struktur, flexibilitet, barns behov och deras föränderliga intressen. Resultatet visar även att organisatoriska faktorer, såsom tid och resurser, påverkar arbetet. Studiens slutsats är att den fysiska inomhusmiljön är en central del i att möjliggöra barns lärande.