Research Achievements Research Articles

Fire ecology and management in South Africa: A history of research achievements and future challenges

Fire ecology and management in South Africa: A history of research achievements and future challenges

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION COMPETENCY DEVELOPMENT IN EDUCATION SYSTEM: MODERN STUDIES AND PROSPECTS

The article shows the results of international and Ukrainian experience on the development of information and communication competency of secondary education process participants, based on research and scientific achievements of academic staff of the Comparative Studies Department for Information and Education Innovations of the Institute of Information Technologies and Learning Tools of NAES of Ukraine. The main obstacles for school teachers towards the formation of computer-based learning process are underlined. The article justifies actuality, significance and necessity for creation, development and evaluation of the ICT competency in education, as well as it further investigation in order to make substantial recommendations on the improvement of education system.

Application of Ultrafast Lasers: A Promising Route toward the Fabrication of Advanced Perovskite‐Based Devices

AbstractPerovskite materials have received considerable research attention owing to their high carrier mobility, photoluminescence quantum yield, and light absorption coefficient. Their excellent optoelectronic properties and low material costs make them a strong competitive raw material for future electronic and high‐temperature superconducting materials. In particular, when applied to light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) and solar cells, their high conversion efficiency and relatively simple preparation process make them revolutionary materials that may change the pattern of perovskite‐based devices and overcome the limits of industrialization. However, with the development of technology, traditional preparation and treatment methods for perovskites no longer meet the increasing demands of the industry. Laser technology is widely used owing to its remarkable compatibility with perovskite materials. Therefore, this review summarizes the applications of laser technology to perovskite materials, including laser‐induced nucleation and film formation, laser annealing, laser ablation, laser printing, and laser patterning, discusses the achievements of researchers in using laser technology to regulate perovskites in recent years, and highlights the prospects of perovskite‐based laser technology.

Optical Adhesives and Screen Sealants for Foldable Displays: Analysis, Progress and Trends.

The realm of flexible display devices, particularly centered around folding screen smartphones, is undergoing rapid advancements. As integral components, optical adhesives and screen sealants for these devices play pivotal roles in determining their overall performance. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of display technology and display screens, delving into the critical function of optical adhesives within this framework. Notably, light-curing adhesives stand out for their paramount importance in display screen manufacturing, attributed to their swift curing capabilities. We synthesize the key research achievements and concomitant limitations pertaining to the characteristics of diverse flexible optical adhesives compositions over recent years. Furthermore, we delve into the influence of chemical modification techniques applied to various adhesive systems and the integration of physical doping fillers on enhancing the performance of screen sealants.

A Review of AI Applications in Unconventional Oil and Gas Exploration and Development

The development of unconventional oil and gas resources is becoming increasingly challenging, with artificial intelligence (AI) emerging as a key technology driving technological advancement and industrial upgrading in this field. This paper systematically reviews the current applications and development trends of AI in unconventional oil and gas exploration and development, covering major research achievements in geological exploration; reservoir engineering; production forecasting; hydraulic fracturing; enhanced oil recovery; and health, safety, and environment management. This paper reviews how deep learning helps predict gas distribution and classify rock types. It also explains how machine learning improves reservoir simulation and history matching. Additionally, we discuss the use of LSTM and DNN models in production forecasting, showing how AI has progressed from early experiments to fully integrated solutions. However, challenges such as data quality, model generalization, and interpretability remain significant. Based on existing work, this paper proposes the following future research directions: establishing standardized data sharing and labeling systems; integrating domain knowledge with engineering mechanisms; and advancing interpretable modeling and transfer learning techniques. With next-generation intelligent systems, AI will further improve efficiency and sustainability in unconventional oil and gas development.

The Resistance Movement in Latvia during the Nazi German Occupation (1941–1945): Research Problems and Achievements

The Resistance Movement in Latvia during the Nazi German Occupation (1941–1945): Research Problems and Achievements

Research on Benefit Distribution of Old Residential Area Renovation Projects under the New PPP Mechanism

The introduction of the new PPP mechanism will bring about huge changes in the implementation methods and revenue sources of old residential area renovation PPP projects implemented in the past in China. In order to cope with thechanges brought about by the new PPP mechanism and ensure the smooth implementation of the project, it is necessary to study and explore the scientific and reasonable revenue distribution mechanism for old residential area renovation projects under the new PPP mechanism. Based on the research achievements of predecessors and the characteristics of the project, this paper determines the four indicators of resource input ratio, risk allocation ratio, innovation ability, and community residents' satisfaction as the influencing factors of project revenue distribution, and uses them to revise the initial Shapley value revenue distribution model. The paper then conducts an empirical analysis of the M old residential area renovation project in H City as an example. After the revision, the social capital will receive higher project revenue allocation than the initial allocation value due to its greater resource input, greater risk allocation proportion, stronger innovation ability, and higher community residents' satisfaction, verifying the fairness and rationality of the revenue distribution model constructed in this paper and its ability to motivate the participation entities to improve both the economic and social benefits of the project and promote the successful completion of the project. The research content of this paper can provide ideas for the revenue distribution scheme research of old residential area renovation projects under the new PPP mechanism, and has certain reference value.

Recent Research Progress in Microchannel Heat Sink Technology

As electronic devices continue to miniaturize and experience higher power densities, thermal management has become a critical factor limiting their performance and reliability. Microchannel heat sinks (MCHS) have emerged as a promising heat dissipation solution due to their excellent thermal performance and compact structure. Thermal resistance and pump power are two key performance indicators of MCHS. In recent years, significant efforts have been made to enhance the heat dissipation capacity of MCHS and reduce pump power, leading to numerous research achievements. This paper reviews the recent progress in microchannel heat sink research, including its working principles, design optimization, manufacturing processes, performance evaluation, and applications in various fields. Additionally, the challenges faced by MCHS and future development directions are discussed

Research progresses and hotspots on glucose metabolic reprogramming in breast cancer: a bibliometric analysis over the past two decades.

Abnormal energy metabolism is a prominent characteristic of cancers. Increasing evidence has suggested the involvement of glucose metabolism reprogramming in the progression of breast cancer (BC). This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of glucose metabolism reprogramming in BC through a bibliometric analysis. Relevant literatures published from 2004 to 2024 were searched in the Web of Science Core Collection database, and a bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and Bibliometrix. In total, 957 publications reporting glucose metabolism reprogramming in BC were included, showing an increasing trend in the annual publication outputs. China ranked first in publication outputs, and the United States of America (USA) had a dominant place in citation counts. The research achievements of Thomas Jefferson University in the USA were at the forefront and widely cited. Lisanti, Michael P., and Sotgia, Federica were the most productive authors. Keyword analysis suggested that the mechanisms of glucose metabolism reprogramming in BC and related therapeutic strategies were the research hotspots. This study, for the first time, elucidated the progresses and hotspots of in the research on glucose metabolism reprogramming in BC, highlighting its potential role in treating BC. Considering that the glycolytic reprogramming of BC is a complex biological process, it is imperative for countries to enhance cooperation in the pursuit of effective antimetabolic therapies to overcome challenges in BC treatment.

Innovative applications of nanotechnology in neuroscience and brain-computer interfaces

The innovative application of nanotechnology in neuroscience and brain-computer interfaces is running a revolutionary revolution. By precisely controlling ministerial size, shape and surface properties, scientists have designed highly compatible nanomaterials with neural cells and show great potential in accurately recording and stimulating neural signals and the regeneration and repair of neural tissue. These innovative applications not only improve our cognition and understanding of the nervous system but also offer new strategies and tools for the treatment of neurological diseases. The application of nanotechnology in neuroscience and brain-computer interfaces also faces challenges in biocompatibility, safety, long-term effects, and cost. In the future, with the continuous progress of technology and the deepening of interdisciplinary research, we have reason to believe that nanotechnology will play a more important role in the interface of neuroscience and brain-computer, and make a greater contribution to the cause of human health. This paper reviews the latest research achievements and technological progress in this field, prospects for its future trends and identifies the challenges and research directions to follow.

Introduction: 2024 Franz Edelman Award for Achievement in Advanced Analytics, Operations Research, and Management Science

This special issue of the INFORMS Journal on Applied Analytics (formerly Interfaces) is devoted to the finalists of the 2024 annual competition for the Franz Edelman Award for Achievement in Advanced Analytics, Operations Research, and Management Science, the profession’s most prestigious award for deployed work. As in previous years, the finalists this year cover a wide range of industries and functions.

Metal-organic framework-based hybrids with photon upconversion.

Upconversion materials (UCMs) featuring an anti-Stokes type emission establish them as an important category of photoluminescent materials. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are rapidly gaining prominence as a class of versatile materials with favourable physical and chemical properties, including high porosity, controllable pore size, flexible design, and diverse functional sites. To endow MOFs with upconversion capability and improve the properties and performance of UCMs, the hybrids integrating UCMs and MOFs are proven to be successful. This review focuses on the research advancements of upconverting MOF-based hybrids, encompassing classifications, luminescence mechanisms, designs, properties, and applications in energy, catalysis, and biomedical fields. The analyses on the functions of upconversion and MOFs, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of various upconverting MOF-based hybrids, are included. Future research directions spanning from properties and performance to applications are explored. This review will be valuable in highlighting the research accomplishments, inspiring more ideas, facilitating deeper investigations in diverse avenues, and further advancing the research field.

Interface engineering for photoelectrochemical oxygen evolution reaction.

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting provides a promising approach for solving sustainable energy challenges and achieving carbon neutrality goals. The oxygen evolution reaction (OER), a key bottleneck in the PEC water-splitting system occurring at the photoanode/electrolyte interface, plays a fundamental role in sustainable solar fuel production. Proper surface or interface engineering strategies have been proven to be necessary to achieve efficient and stable PEC water oxidation. This review summarizes the recent advances in interface engineering, including junction formation, surface doping, surface passivation or protection, surface sensitization, and OER cocatalyst modification, while highlighting the remarkable research achievements in the field of PEC water splitting. The benefits of each interface engineering strategy and how it enhances the device performance are critically analyzed and compared. Finally, the outlook for the development of interface engineering for efficient PEC water splitting is briefly discussed. This review illustrates the importance of employing rational interface engineering in realizing efficient and stable PEC water splitting devices.

Research progress in passivation layer technology for crystalline silicon solar cells

Under the background of rapid advancements in photovoltaic technology, crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cells, as the mainstream photovoltaic devices, have gained significant research attention for their excellent performances. In particular, silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells, TOPCon (Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact), and PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) represent the cutting-edge technologies in c-Si solar cells. The surface passivation layer of crystalline silicon solar cells, as one of the key factors to improve cell performances, has been closely linked to the development of crystalline silicon solar cells. Due to the complex mechanism of passivation layer and the high demand of experimental research, it is challenging to achieve high quality surface passivation. This paper comprehensively reviews the key issues and research progress in interface passivation technologies for SHJ, TOPCon, and PERC solar cells. Firstly, the research progress of key technology breakthrough of SHJ solar cell is reviewed systematically, and the influences of growth conditions and doping layer on the passivation performances of SHJ solar cell are discussed in detail. Secondly, the important strategies and research achievements for improving the passivation performances of TOPCon and PERC solar cells in the past five years are systematically described. Finally, the development trend of passivation layer technology is prospected. This review offers valuable insights for future technological improvements and performance enhancements in c-Si solar cells.

국내 일반대학 강의평가 선행연구에 대한 문헌 고찰: 교수자 변인 중심으로 (1994-2024)

Objectives The present study analyzes the previous research on college course evaluations in Korea over the past 30 years related to instructor factors. It then identifies how instructor-related sub-factors influence course evaluations and provides implications for designing valid course evaluations. Methods We collected previous research articles on course evaluation conducted in Korean universities from 1994 to 2024. We followed three steps to gather research related to instructor factors. First, we screened by looking at the titles of the articles. Then, we looked closely at the abstracts. Finally, we examined the results of these articles. As a result, 37 research articles were selected with five sub-factors: (a)position and experience, (b)age, (c)teaching ability, (d)gender, and (e)research and service achievements. Results Overall, the higher the faculty position and the more years of experience, the higher the teaching evaluation scores. Full-time professors had higher ratings than part-time instructors. An instructor's age tended to have an inverse effect on their course evaluation scores, with older instructors generally receiving lower scores. The quality of an instructor's teaching had a significant effect on course evaluation scores, particularly course preparation, teaching methods, and instructor-student interaction. When it comes to instructor gender, the results are mixed. However, some studies have found that courses taught by female instructors received higher teaching evaluations. Finally, faculty with more research and service achievements tended to have higher course evaluation scores, but this area is still understudied and more research is needed to draw firm conclusions. Conclusions The current study shows that various instructor-related sub-factors have an influence on college course evaluations. These findings are expected to enhance the validity and reliability of course evaluations in the near future.

STRATEGIES TO AGE WELL: BUILDING A CREATIVE AND IMPACTFUL CAREER IN BRAIN HEALTH

Abstract Dr. Vonetta Dotson is a gero-neuropsychologist with a program of a researched focused on understanding positive (e.g., exercise) and negative (e.g., depression) modifiers of brain health in diverse older adults in order to identify ways to reduce health disparities in cognitive and affective disorders in late life, thereby enabling every individual to age well. The work is designed to be translational in nature, with implications for the daily lives of older adults and for how we diagnose, treat, and prevent cognitive and affective disorders. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) and the Gerontological Society of American (GSA) have been instrumental in her professional accomplishments throughout her training and career, ranging from early GSA conference experiences and participation in the Technical Assistance Workshop (former name of the Butler Williams program) during graduate school, to her current NIA funding through various mechanisms including R01, R21, and U19 grants. This presentation will summarize Dr. Dotson’s scientific research accomplishments, the role of NIA and GSA in her career, and her more recent translation of her research to community outreach, including her start-up company, CerebroFit, that puts into action the latest research on lifestyle interventions for healthy brain aging and her book Keep Your Wits about You: The Science of Brain Maintenance as You Age, which provides lay audiences with science-based facts and practical tools to help readers develop healthy lifestyles to optimize their brain health.

Changes in the Activities of the Library of the Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University in the Framework of Open Science

Objective. The article examines the role of modifications in the activities of the Scientific Library of the Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University (Yaroslav Mudryi NLU) as a basis for using its innovative potential in promoting the benefits of open science among the academic community, and facilitating the consolidation (unification) of research achievements on topical issues of law. Methods. The general scientific methods (analytical, comparative, analysis and synthesis, etc.) were applied, which made it possible to determine the features of structural and functional, reorganizational, resource and service modernization of the library's activities in the implementation of the latest open science technologies. Results. The article shows the role of the library as a reliable assistant of the University in the processes of research data exchange, a guarantor of the formation and adaptation of the online environment, resources, bibliometric tools to provide systematic support for research and strengthen communication interaction during remote work in wartime. Conclusions. Attention is focused on the need for strategic use of modifications in the library's activities, which allow achieving a balanced combination of open science goals with the modification of the library system and obtaining a synergistic effect within the research infrastructure of the University.

Exploratory Study of Teaching Logistics Automation Courses from a Cross-disciplinary Perspective

This paper relies on the long-term scientific research and teaching achievements of logistics automation in Qingdao University of Technology, systematically analyzes the characteristics of cross-disciplinary logistics automation, proposes a teaching system of logistics automation based on the curriculum and experimental projects, designs an innovative teaching mode of logistics automation, and hopes to form a representative cross-disciplinary teaching practice case, which is a good reference value for the research and cultivation of complex talents in the context of the new engineering discipline and the new liberal arts discipline. It is hoped to form a representative case of cross-disciplinary course teaching practice, which is of good reference value for cross-disciplinary research and cultivation of compound talents under the background of "new engineering" and "new liberal arts".

Interview with Prof France Šušteršič

Professor France Šušteršič dedicated his professional career to the study of karst, & caves. He is renowned for his original research achievements and insightful reflections on the challenges and role of karstology in science.

RETHINKING THEORETICAL STUDIES OF SOCIAL AND HUMANITARIAN FUNDING MECHANISMS IN UKRAINE

The study analyses the theoretical foundations of financial management mechanisms in the social and humanitarian sphere. The financing mechanisms for social and humanitarian efforts in Ukraine are reevaluated using the Kitchenham literature review model. The article reviews studies by scholars on social and humanitarian financing, using sources like Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Scopus. It focuses on Ukrainian researchers to pinpoint future research directions for financing mechanisms in Ukraine's post-war reconstruction. It is noted that many scientific and educational publications provide different definitions of financial mechanisms, financial governance and management in the social and humanitarian spheres. These definitions are not contradictory, but demonstrate different views on the importance of different elements. The study suggests that a review of current research achievements and best practices can highlight key areas for further research on financial mechanisms in public administration of Ukraine's social and humanitarian sectors in the post-war reconstruction period. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on social and human factors, improving public administration and developing concepts for improving the quality of public services.