Application Of Technology Research Articles

On the increase of the melting temperature of water confined in one-dimensional nano-cavities.

Water confined in nanoscale cavities plays a crucial role in everyday phenomena in geology and biology, as well as technological applications at the water-energy nexus. However, even understanding the basic properties of nano-confined water is extremely challenging for theory, simulations, and experiments. In particular, determining the melting temperature of quasi-one-dimensional ice polymorphs confined in carbon nanotubes has proven to be an exceptionally difficult task, with previous experimental and classical simulation approaches reporting values ranging from ∼180K up to ∼450K at ambient pressure. In this work, we use a machine learning potential that delivers first principles accuracy (trained to the density functional theory approximation revPBE0-D3) to study the phase diagram of water for confinement diameters 9.5 < d < 12.5 Å. We find that several distinct ice polymorphs melt in a surprisingly narrow range between ∼280 and ∼310K, with a melting mechanism that depends on the nanotube diameter. These results shed new light on the melting of ice in one-dimension and have implications for the operating conditions of carbon-based filtration and desalination devices.

Scientometric analysis of building integrated photovoltaics research: development, themes, and main trends

ABSTRACT Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), a significant technological tool to reduce carbon emissions from buildings, have attracted extensive research attention worldwide as the call for “carbon neutrality” in the building sector continues to rise. Existing studies lack a comprehensive compendium of global BIPV-related research, and articles on the latest advances in the last five years are particularly scarce. Consequently, this study conducted a scientometric review of BIPV research to systematically and visually analyse the cutting-edge BIPV literature. Through multiple rounds of searching and screening, this study collected 467 BIPV-related studies between 2019 and 2023. It utilised CiteSpace to analyse the development of BIPV literature, summarise the themes, and predict the trends. The review reveals that the cross-disciplinary nature of the discipline dynamically shapes the focus of BIPV research. Based on the findings of scientometrics, three major themes are outlined and critically analysed: science and technology, market products, and implementation impediments. By comprehensively summarising and analysing the most recent BIPV literature, this study proposes a series of research trends in the field. This study provides policymakers, architects, and researchers in the field of low-carbon buildings with a detailed compendium of the current status and trends of BIPV. It offers specific insights and sources of reference for in-depth research and the promotion of the application of BIPV technology in the building industry.

Digital Technologies in Reducing Carbon Emissions in the Construction Industry: China, Heibei

Global warming caused by carbon emissions has become the focal point of the international community, requiring global cooperation and proactive actions to deal with it. With the continuous development of digital technology, its presence in people's lives is getting higher. The development and application of these technologies are driving the arrival of the digital era. So far, there is still a gap in the application of digital technology in the field of carbon emission management in the construction industry and the application framework in different life cycles is still unclear. Therefore, this study intended to explore the application of digital technologies in the construction industry’s carbon emissions. Furthermore, this intended to study the role of digital technology in different life cycles of carbon emissions, aiming to provide reasonable suggestions for reducing carbon emissions in different life cycles of projects，such as planning, Operation &amp; Maintenance, Tear Down. This systematic literature review uses PRISMA, identified 305 documents from ScienceDirect. A growing trend in publications on this topic was observed, indicating an increasing use of digital technologies in the study of carbon emissions. There is an important impact on reducing carbon emissions such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Big Data, Blockchain, Digital Twin, Machine Learning, etc. Then we use mixed research methods to conduct analysis through Focus Group and AHP and obtain the results through weight ranking. The result of this study can be used as a guideline for digital technology in the process of managing carbon emissions. Driving the guideline, this research helps establish a digital technology carbon emissions in construction management system, which is crucial for promoting digital technology in carbon emissions.

Applications of 3D Printing Technology in Angiogenesis Model for Cancer Research

3D printing is a technology that has gradually advanced with the development of technology and has been used in medicine and cancer treatment. 3D printing's ability to prototype quickly allows it to quickly convert fundamental cancer research findings into therapeutic applications, which could speed up or possibly completely transform the entire medication discovery and development process. Angiogenesis is an essential process in normal development and adult physiology but is disrupted in many diseases. The review summarizes the applications of 3D printing technology in angiogenesis models for cancer research. 3D printed PLA-bio-glass composite for bone tissue engineering can be used to study bone healing and regeneration. The in vitro microvascular model using 3D printing technology can be applied to explore the role of angiogenesis-related proteins. A 2D or 3D histological model is sufficient to track cancer cell dynamics. A combination of 3D bio-printed blood vessel models and spheroids can be a cost-effective and efficient method for drug testing to evaluate both tumor growth and angiogenesis. In future research, it can be expected to develop technologies to support 4D printing of personalized adjustable bionic periosteum with anisotropic microstructures to accelerate angiogenesis and bone healing.

Trends in Smart Restaurant Research: Bibliometric Review and Research Agenda

Background The automation of processes and services has transformed various industries, including the restaurant sector. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), and big data have been increasingly adopted to enhance service delivery, improve user experiences, and enable data traceability. By collecting user feedback and analyzing sentiments, these technologies facilitate decision-making and offer predictive insights into future food preferences. This study aims to explore current research trends in intelligent restaurants, focusing on technological applications that improve service and decision-making. Methods A bibliometric analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-2020 guidelines. A total of 94 academic documents were reviewed from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, focusing on publications related to intelligent restaurant systems, particularly involving IoT and automation technologies. Results The analysis revealed that the United States, India, and China have contributed the most to the field, with a particular emphasis on China’s implementation of IoT architecture and robotics in restaurant settings. Chinese restaurant innovations, particularly in robotics, are among the most frequently cited in the literature. The study identifies these countries as leading the research in the intelligent restaurant domain. Conclusions Technologies such as IoT, machine learning, RFID, and big data are driving advancements in restaurant automation, enhancing service efficiency and user experience. The United States, India, and China are leading research in this area, with China standing out for its application of robotics and IoT in restaurants. This research provides a foundation for future studies aimed at improving predictive models for food selection and service optimization.

Beyond Smoothness: The Art of Surface Texturing Battling against Friction

Abstract Leveraging surface texturing to realize significant friction reduction at contact interfaces has emerged as a preferred technique among tribology experts, boosting tribological energy efficiency and sustainability. This review systematically demonstrates optimization strategies, advanced manufacturing methods, typical applications, and outlooks of technical challenges toward surface texturing for friction reduction. Firstly, the lubricated contact models of microtextures are introduced. Then, we provide a framework of state-of-the-art research on synergistic friction optimization strategies of microtexture structures, surface treatments, liquid lubricants, and external energy fields. A comparative analysis evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of manufacturing techniques commonly employed for microtextured surfaces. The latest research advancements in microtextures in different application scenarios are highlighted. Finally, the challenges and directions of future research on surface texturing technology are briefly addressed. This review aims to elaborate on the worldwide progress in the optimization, manufacturing, and application of microtexture-enabled friction reduction technologies to promote their practical utilizations.

Perceptions and Experiences of Exercise Snacks Among Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Synthesis.

Physical inactivity in middle-aged and older adults is a major health problem. Exercise snacks are an emerging form of physical activity characterized by shorter single bouts of high-intensity exercise spread out repeatedly throughout the day which can provide more exercise opportunities for middle-aged and older adults. To summarize perceptions and experiences of exercise snacks among middle-aged and older adults, and explore the barriers and facilitators of promoting exercise snacks. We followed the PRISMA and systematically searched five databases from the earliest to May 2024. The Critical Appraisal Skills Program tool is used to quality assess and the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Model of Behavior (COM-B model) is used to guide thematic synthesis. Fourteen categories from nine studies were summarized, and 277 findings were identified. Three synthesized findings were: capability of middle-aged and older adults (including health-related exercise disorders, learning and mastery skills, and health literacy), opportunities for exercise snacks (including flexible and free, easy and quick, integration into life, social and family support, and application of mobile health technology), and motivation of exercise snacks (including pleasurable experiences, gaining physical and mental benefits, effective reminders, incentives and feedback, personalized needs, and self-efficacy). Exercise snacks are a promising approach， however, they need to be continuously optimized. Our results can provide evidence for designing and optimizing exercise snack programs. Medical workers should assist middle-aged and older adults in developing appropriate exercise snack strategies. PROSPERO (CRD42024544089).

A Study on the Use of Large Language Models for Lesson Preparation by Student Teachers in Hong Kong

This study focuses on Hong Kong's student teachers and explores whether they utilize large language models (LLMs) for lesson planning, as well as their perspectives on this practice. The findings reveal that some student teachers have begun adopting LLMs, discovering that it significantly enhances their lesson planning efficiency and enriches their instructional content. However, they also encounter challenges such as mastering artificial intelligence (AI) technology. On the other hand, despite recognizing that LLMs represent a popular trend in the future, some student teachers have not yet adopted this technology due to insufficient guidance and privacy concerns. Overall, student teachers are receptive to the application of AI technology in lesson planning and believe it can revolutionize teaching methods. Still, they call for more support and guidance to surmount potential issues. The study concludes that AI technology holds substantial potential in the education field but requires meticulous guidance and regulation to maximize its positive impact.

Experimental Investigation of the Impact of Mixed Wettability on Pore-Scale Fluid Displacement: A Microfluidic Study.

Understanding rock wettability is crucial across various fields including hydrology, subsurface fluid storage and extraction, and environmental sciences. In natural subsurface formations like carbonate and shale, mixed wettability is frequently observed, characterized by heterogeneous regions at the pore scale that exhibit both hydrophilic (water-wet) and hydrophobic (oil-wet) characteristics. Despite its common occurrence, the impact of mixed wettability on immiscible fluid displacement at the pore scale remains poorly understood, creating a gap in effective modeling and prediction of fluid behavior in porous media. The primary objective of this study was to investigate how mixed wettability affects pore-scale fluid displacement dynamics, utilizing microfluidic devices designed to replicate rock-like structures with varied wettability properties. Current techniques for achieving mixed wettability within microfluidic devices often struggle with spatial control and resolution, limiting their accuracy. To address this limitation, a novel approach was employed that combined photolithography and molecular vapor deposition of perfluorodecyltrichlorosilane to precisely and selectively modify wettability within specific pore regions, achieving a mixed wettability distribution correlated with pore size for the first time. The experimental setup included five identical micromodels representing distinct wetting conditions, which were initially saturated with air and subsequently flooded by water. By systematically varying the ratio of hydrophilic to hydrophobic areas, we covered a range from fully hydrophilic to fully hydrophobic and intermediate mixed wettability configurations. Comparative displacement experiments revealed that pore-level mixed wettability has a pronounced effect on fluid displacement behavior, influencing the injection time, spatial invasion patterns, and dynamic pressure profiles. Results indicated that both the injection time and dynamic pressure decreased with an increase in the hydrophilic area fraction. Each wettability configuration displayed unique sequences of pore-filling events, emphasizing the critical role of the wettability distribution in influencing displacement dynamics. While mixed wettability exhibited a clear monotonic effect on invasion time and dynamic pressure, saturation behavior was notably nonmonotonic. Interestingly, mixed wettability scenarios with relatively medium to high hydrophilic fractions demonstrated enhanced overall sweep efficiency compared to the hydrophobic case and reduced the bypassed gas phase relative to the hydrophilic case. However, inefficiently distributed mixed wet zones were found to reduce the sweep efficiency. These findings highlight the critical influence of mixed wettability in fluid displacement processes, with significant implications for applications in oil recovery, CO2 sequestration, and other subsurface energy technologies.

A Rapid Evaluation Method of Permafrost Bearing Capacity in the Tibetan Plateau Region Based on the Correlation Between CPT-CBR

Permafrost, as a soil type under unique environmental conditions, has bearing characteristics that are highly susceptible to thermo-hydraulic environments. Rapid evaluation of the bearing characteristics of in situ permafrost at various depths in perennially frozen regions is a critical scientific issue urgently needing resolution in the road design and construction sectors in China. To address this, this study investigates the correlation between CPT parameters and laboratory mechanical indices under the combined effects of multiple factors in frozen sandy soils. By conducting both CPT and CBR tests on frozen sandy soils, the study analyzes the trends in changes in cone tip resistance (qc) and CBR values under the influence of temperature (T), moisture content (ω), and compaction degree (K) and establishes a functional relationship between them. Based on the standard requirements for indoor CBR, an evaluation criterion using qc for assessing the bearing capacity of frozen sandy soil is proposed. The results indicate that both CBR values and qc increase initially and then stabilize as K increases. With decreasing temperature, both indices stabilize after an initial increase, with turning points at −3.1 °C for CBR values and −2.5 °C for qc. As ω increases, both indices first increase and then stabilize, with a turning point at 40%ω. There is a robust linear relationship between the CBR values and qc, with the ratio of predicted CBR values to actual values showing a histogram and log-normal distribution accounting for 81% and 51.3%, respectively, within a 20% accuracy level, indicating good predictive performance. Referring to the highway subgrade specifications for indoor CBR, a standard for evaluating the bearing capacity of frozen sandy soils using CPT technology is proposed. This study provides new insights for geological surveys in perennially frozen regions and a theoretical basis for the application of CPT technology in evaluating the bearing capacity of permafrost.

A Study of the Role of Physical Functioning and Physical Conditioning on the Influence of Competitive Sports Programmes

With the continuous progress of science and technology, the field of competitive sports has also witnessed revolutionary changes. Modern technology is playing an increasingly important role in improving athletes' performance, optimising training methods and preventing sports injuries. The aim of this study is to delve into the role of body functions and form states in competitive sports and how they affect athletes' competitive performance. By analysing the physical characteristics and training needs of athletes in different sports, it reveals the state effects of body function and form state on competitive sports. The study further proposes the enhancement of athletes' physical functioning and shape shape through scientific training methods. The application of these strategies will help athletes achieve optimal performance in training and competition, reduce the risk of injury, and improve athletic performance. With the continuous development and application of science and technology, we have reason to believe that competitive sports will become more scientific, efficient and humane.

Smart contracts on blockchain for insurance and Takaful industry

Blockchain technology can drastically reduce the costs associated with claim verification in the insurance and Takaful industry while increasing trust among involved parties through smart contracts and a shared source of truth. This study examines whether Takaful operators and insurance companies apply blockchain differently and explores the benefits of blockchain technology and smart contracts for both. It conducts a systematic review of relevant literature and a meta-analysis to assess how current studies describe and combine cases as evidence. The results indicate that Takaful and insurance companies that use smart contracts experience a reduction in fraudulent claims, increased transparency, enhanced connections between involved parties, and automation of claim payments with minimal human intervention. The analysis reveals no difference in the application of blockchain technology between the two types of operators, despite the distinct operating contracts of Takaful and conventional insurance.

Research on the Impact of Internet of Things (IoT) Technology on Logistics Warehouse Management

As a consequence of the evolution of the times, Internet of Things technology has made remarkable progress in the field of logistics and warehouse management. Its application promotes the intelligence of logistics management. This has the effect of markedly enhancing the efficiency of logistics management, thereby facilitating the accelerated growth of the logistics industry. This paper begins by examining the current state of logistics warehouse management and the fundamental principles of IoT technology and its application in the field of logistics. It then proceeds to discuss the challenges faced by traditional logistics warehouse management in China. This paper analyses how the application of IoT technology can significantly improve the efficiency of logistics management, and provides an in-depth discussion on the development trend of logistics warehouse management. The objective of this paper is to illustrate the pivotal role of IoT technology in logistics warehouse management and to highlight its beneficial influence on the prospective evolution of the logistics industry.

Advance in the application of metabolomics technology in poultry

Metabolomics is a science that takes small molecular metabolites in organisms as the research object and determines the dynamic changes of metabolites at the overall level through a variety of modern analytical techniques. At present, metabolomics technology has been widely used in biological significance interpretation, food safety and quality, breeding, disease diagnosis, functional compound identification, and other fields. Its application in poultry science has also become the focus of widespread attention. With the sustainable development of analytical techniques, metabolomics has great potential in the application of poultry science. In this paper, the research progress of metabolomics in poultry growth and development, genetics and breeding, egg quality, meat quality, and disease is reviewed and concluded, which is expected to provide scientific ideas for the research of metabolomics in poultry.

IoT Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education: Sustainable Tilapia Cultivation Optimization Strategy

Tilapia cultivation in Teratak Village, Central Lombok, faces problems in feed efficiency and limited market access. Lack of automation technology causes feed waste, while limited marketing knowledge limits farmers' competitiveness. This community service activity aims to overcome these problems through the application of Internet of Things (IoT) technology in the form of automatic feeders (smart feeders) and entrepreneurship training focused on digital marketing. The methods applied include the manufacture and installation of smart fish feeders that are controlled via an application to regulate the amount and frequency of feed. In addition, entrepreneurship training focuses on digital marketing strategies through social media and e-commerce platforms to expand market reach. The results of the activity show that smart feeders increase feed efficiency by up to 20%, reduce waste, and support more optimal fish growth. Digital marketing training helps farmers improve their online promotion skills, expand market networks, and significantly increase sales. In conclusion, the application of IoT technology and digital marketing-based entrepreneurship training has proven effective in increasing the efficiency of cultivation and market competitiveness of tilapia farmers in Teratak Village

THE NEXUS OF FINANCIAL LITERACY, FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY, AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: INSIGHTS FROM LAMONGAN'S CULINARY MSMES

Background: The MSME culinary sector is one of the most popular industries in Indonesia, particularly in Lamongan. MSME entrepreneurs in this sector need to enhance their understanding of financial literacy and financial inclusion to improve their business's financial performance. Additionally, keeping up with modern developments by utilizing financial technology is crucial to optimizing financial management. Research Purpose: This study aims to understand how financial literacy, fintech, and financial inclusion impact the financial performance of culinary micro, small, and medium enterprises in Lamongan. Research Method: This study uses an explanatory quantitative research approach. Data collection was conducted through Likert-scale questionnaires distributed to 140 MSME respondents in the culinary sector in Lamongan. These respondents were selected using purposive sampling, and the data were analyzed using multiple linear regression. Findings: The study reveals that financial literacy and inclusion enhance the financial performance of culinary micro, small, and medium enterprises in Lamongan. While fintech's role is insignificant, a synergistic approach involving all three factors significantly contributes to improved performance. Conclusion: Financial literacy and financial inclusion among MSMEs in Lamongan's culinary sector are relatively good. However, the application of financial technology does not significantly affect financial performance, as most consumers in Lamongan, from lower-middle-income groups, do not widely use fintech for transactions.

Advances in Single Particle Mass Analysis.

Single particle mass analysis methods allow the measurement and characterization of individual nanoparticles, viral particles, as well as biomolecules like protein aggregates and complexes. Several key benefits are associated with the ability to analyze individual particles rather than bulk samples, such as high sensitivity and low detection limits, and virtually unlimited dynamic range, as this figure of merit strictly depends on analysis time. However, data processing and interpretation of single particle data can be complex, often requiring advanced algorithms and machine learning approaches. In addition, particle ionization, transfer, and detection efficiency can be limiting factors for certain types of analytes. Ongoing developments in the field aim to address these challenges and expand the capabilities of single particle mass analysis techniques. Charge detection mass spectrometry is a single particle version of mass spectrometry in which the charge (z) is determine independently from m/z. Nano-electromechanical resonator mass analysis relies on changes in a nanoscale device's resonance frequency upon deposition of a particle to directly derive its inertial mass. Mass photometry uses interferometric video-microscopy to derive particle mass from the intensity of the scattered light. A common feature of these approaches is the acquisition of single particle data, which can be filtered and concatenated in the form of a particle mass distribution. In the present article, dedicated to our honored colleague Richard Cole, we cover the latest technological advances and applications of these single particle mass analysis approaches.

Digital technologies for life cycle assessment: a review and integrated combination framework

Abstract Purpose Companies need to enhance their understanding of the environmental impacts of their products and services. Life cycle assessment (LCA) has become a prevalent method for evaluating these impacts. Despite significant advancements in LCA methodology and data availability, several challenges persist. Digital technologies may offer solutions to these challenges in LCA. Therefore, it is crucial to explore how digital technologies can be integrated into LCAs. Methods A systematic literature review was conducted to examine the application of digital technologies, specifically blockchain, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, and artificial intelligence (AI), within LCAs. The review included 103 peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers. Contributions of these technologies were categorized according to the four LCA phases outlined in ISO 14040/44 standards. The findings were synthesized into a framework that highlights the individual and combined potential of these technologies for enhancing LCAs. Results and discussion The review reveals that IoT is primarily used in the inventory analysis phase, while blockchain, AI, and big data are applied across the goal and scope definition, inventory analysis, impact assessment, and interpretation phases. Based on these findings, a comprehensive theoretical concept was developed to outline all possible combinations of these four technologies with LCA for synergistic application. Conclusions This study proposes a framework for integrating four key digital technologies—blockchain, IoT, big data, and AI—into LCAs to support environmental sustainability assessment from a company perspective. This framework offers a current overview and a foundation for future research. For LCA practitioners, it serves as a strategic tool for identifying potential technologies and making informed decisions about which digital technologies to apply in their assessments.

Development of an Information and Communication Technology Literacy Evaluation Model for Vocational College Students in Guangxi

Background and Aims: As the global digitalization process accelerates, the rapid development and widespread application of new ICT technologies, such as AI, cloud computing, big data, blockchain, and the metaverse, have made digitalization the main driver of global social and economic development. Evaluating the ICT literacy of vocational college students is crucial for enhancing their ICT skills and serves as an important foundation for their future career development. This study aims to: 1) investigate the current issues and solutions in the assessment of ICT literacy among vocational college students in Guangxi, and 2) develop an ICT literacy evaluation model. Methodology: The research methods include semi-structured interviews and the Delphi technique. This study successfully constructed an ICT literacy evaluation model for vocational college students in Guangxi and provided corresponding recommendations, aiming to offer theoretical references and practical guidance for improving students' ICT literacy. Results: Social responsibility and vocational competency are two components of the ICT literacy model that Guangxi vocational students use to improve their digital literacy and problem-solving abilities. It supports the creation of successful curricula, enhances instructional strategies, and harmonizes evaluation procedures. Curriculum development and educational policies are informed by this model, which also gets students ready for the workforce. Conclusion: For Guangxi vocational students, the ICT literacy model improves digital skills, problem-solving abilities, and vocational competence, helping to prepare them for the workforce. It also supports the creation of successful curricula and informs policy in education.

Guide to microfluidic systems and the preparation of emulsions

AbstractMicrofluidic technology, as an effective method for precise manipulation of microfluid volumes, has demonstrated significant potential in the preparation of emulsions. This guideline introduces key components of a microfluidic operating system, including the design of microfluidic chips (such as T‐junction, flow‐focusing, and co‐flowing structures), fluid driving systems, control systems, and observation and detection systems, explaining how they collaborate to accurately control the droplet generation process. In terms of specific steps for emulsion preparation, the guideline details the workflow utilizing microfluidic technology to fabricate both single‐layer O/W and W/O emulsions, as well as complex multi‐layer emulsions, emphasizing critical considerations during experimentation. Through in‐depth understanding and judicious application of microfluidic technology, there is a promise to advance emulsion preparation techniques across various domains, including drug delivery, food technology, biotechnology, and materials science.