Technological Considerations Research Articles

Can the utilization of technology-enhanced learning spaces lead to improved learning outcomes? A meta-analysis based on 39 experimental and quasi-experimental studies

ABSTRACT In recent years, the promotion and application of technology-enhanced learning spaces in teaching have garnered significant attention, but the effectiveness of their application remains controversial. This is the first meta-analysis to examine the effectiveness of technology-enhanced learning spaces on student learning outcomes. The study integrates data from 39 experimental and quasi-experimental studies. The results show that technology-enhanced learning spaces have a significantly positive effect on student learning outcomes (SMD=0.62). Further analysis of moderator variables such as educational stage, subject nature, knowledge type, sample size, experimental duration, teaching methods, and technical type number revealed that sample size and teaching methods significantly moderated the effects of technology-enhanced learning spaces. Based on the results of the meta-analysis, several recommendations for the application of technology-enhanced learning spaces are proposed: (1) choose learning spaces based on the type of knowledge; (2) strengthen emotional care for students in technology-enhanced environments; (3) control class size; and (4) integrate technology with pedagogy. However, the study has some limitations, including a relatively small sample size, lack of consideration of artificial intelligence technologies, and uneven research distribution. Future studies should incorporate a larger and more balanced set of research, and include more moderator variables for analysis.

The impact of Artificial Intelligence in detecting esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: advances and challenges

This review explores the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI), especially through deep learning (DL) and convolutional neural networks (CNNs), in the early detection of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). ESCC presents significant diagnostic challenges due to its aggressive nature and high mortality, often diagnosed at advanced stages. Traditional endoscopic methods, while essential, suffer from limitations like interobserver variability, especially for subtle early lesions. AI-based systems have demonstrated high sensitivity in identifying these early neoplasms, reducing diagnostic discrepancies and enhancing precision. Through a bibliographic review, the article highlights recent AI advancements, particularly in utilizing CNNs to identify early-stage ESCC. These tools have shown the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy even among less experienced endoscopists and provide critical support in clinical decision-making, including biopsy guidance and lesion mapping in chromoendoscopy and narrow-band imaging (NBI). Despite promising results, challenges persist in AI’s practical application, such as the need for extensive data for training, clinical validation, and standardization across different endoscopic equipment. The study underscores the need for large-scale multicenter studies and standardization to solidify AI’s role in ESCC diagnosis. It envisions a future where AI not only serves as a diagnostic support tool but becomes integral to endoscopic practices, requiring continued technological development, ethical considerations, and regulatory frameworks to maximize clinical benefit.

Tailoring Synergistic Polylactic Acid–Based Nanocomposites for Sustainable Antimicrobial Fruit Packaging

ABSTRACTThe rising demand for sustainable and antimicrobial packaging materials has fuelled innovations in polymer‐based solutions, especially in the preservation of fresh fruit to reduce food waste and enhance food safety. This review delves into the advancement and refinement of nanocomposites based on polylactic acid (PLA) for sustainable antimicrobial fruit packaging, emphasising the synergistic effects of combining PLA with nanofillers and antimicrobial agents, such as metal and metal oxide nanoparticles, plant extracts and essential oils (EOs) and carbon nanomaterial. By elucidating the synergistic effects that emerge from these combinations, this review examines the ability to enhance mechanical and antibacterial properties of PLA, followed by a review of the recent changes in sustainable fruit packaging solutions that integrate technological features and environmental considerations. Ultimately, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in PLA‐based antimicrobial packaging, offering insights on the environmental benefits of integrating antimicrobial functionality into PLA‐based materials and the future of sustainable packaging for fruit preservation.

Understanding Generative AI: From Basic Principles to Real-World Applications

This comprehensive article examines the foundational principles, technical implementations, and societal implications of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI), a transformative technology that has revolutionized the creation of synthetic content across multiple domains. The article explores the architectural frameworks underpinning GenAI, focusing on Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) and Transformer-based models, while detailing the sophisticated training methodologies and evaluation metrics that enable their functionality. Through an in-depth analysis of real-world applications in healthcare, creative industries, and software development, this article illuminates the technology's potential to enhance human capabilities and drive innovation. The investigation extends to critical ethical considerations, addressing security concerns surrounding deepfakes, challenges in bias mitigation, and complex intellectual property issues. Furthermore, the article presents a forward-looking perspective on research opportunities, policy implications, and industry best practices, emphasizing the importance of responsible development and deployment of generative AI systems. This article contributes to the growing body of knowledge on GenAI by providing a holistic understanding of its current state, challenges, and future directions, while highlighting the crucial balance between technological advancement and ethical considerations in shaping its evolution.

Emotions in Robo-Advisory: Understanding Biases, Designing Sensitive Platforms, and Enhancing User Experience through Emotional Intelligence

Introduction: Robo-advisory services revolutionize investment management by providing automated, data-centric solutions, utilizing vast data sets to tailor investment plans to individual client needs. However, the importance of emotions in investor behavior is still a crucial but sometimes disregarded feature of these systems. By using automated procedures and computational calculations to provide customized investment options, robo-advisors have completely transformed the investment management industry. Purpose: The article explores how robo-advisory services can improve investor outcomes by addressing emotional biases in investment decisions. It proposes emotionally intelligent robo- advisors that understand investor sentiment and addresses challenges, empowering investors to achieve long-term financial goals. Methodology: The article explores the challenges of integrating emotional intelligence into robo- advisory services through a comprehensive review of the existing literature, focusing on behavioral finance and empirical evidence to understand the practical implications of irrational behavior through reviewing case studies and empirical evidence. Result: The study suggests a multi-faceted approach for designing emotionally intelligent robo-advisors, considering technological innovation, regulatory compliance, ethical considerations, and user engagement strategies, addressing challenges like algorithmic biases, privacy concerns, and regulatory compliance.

FAGOTERAPIA COMO ALTERNATIVA NO COMBATE A INFECÇÕES RESISTENTES: AVANÇOS E DESAFIOS NO TRATAMENTO DE E. COLI UPEC E EPEC

Resistant bacterial infections represent one of the biggest public health challenges today, resulting in a significant increase in morbidity and mortality linked to infectious diseases. On the other hand, Escherichia coli stands out as one of the most significant bacteria, particularly the uropathogenic (UPEC) and enteropathogenic (EPEC) variants. Infections caused by these strains have become a problem due to their ability to develop resistance to various antibiotics, thus harming therapeutic alternatives. The objective of this research was to investigate the effectiveness of phage therapy as an alternative in combating resistant bacterial infections, focusing on UPEC and enteropathogenic EPEC strains of Escherichia coli. Methodologically, it was an exploratory and comparative bibliographic review through qualitative research. As a result, it was found that future directions in phage therapy present a promising outlook, full of technological innovations, research needs and ethical considerations. The success of phage therapy as a viable alternative to treating resistant bacterial infections will depend on collaboration between different disciplines, careful consideration of ethical implications, and a commitment to ensuring that new technologies benefit society as a whole. The development of robust guidelines and regulations, along with increased public awareness, will be critical to the effective integration of phage therapy into clinical practice and public health. It was concluded that progress in this area represents a response to the bacterial resistance crisis, as it opens up new perspectives for biomedical research and clinical practice. Therefore, the continued engagement of researchers, health professionals and policy makers will be essential to ensure that phage therapy is established as an integral component in the fight against bacterial infections, benefiting public health in a broad and effective way.

Furniture Design of Smart Art Classroom Based on Interactive Analysis of Intelligent Sensing and ITIAS

This paper explores the design and optimization of smart art classroom furniture, addressing the evolving needs of modern art education environments. With the integration of intelligent technologies and sensor networks, the research aims to enhance the functionality, flexibility, and user experience of classroom furniture. It highlights the limitations of traditional classroom furniture and the need for adaptive, multifunctional designs that accommodate diverse learning behaviors and physical requirements. Through a combination of ITIAS interactive analysis and mathematical modeling, the study proposes a framework for developing furniture that supports privacy protection, dynamic updates, and better engagement in art education. The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating ergonomic, aesthetic, and technological considerations to improve teaching and learning outcomes in art classrooms.

Exploring the relationship between land characteristics and the sustainable growth of coconut cultivation in Indonesia

This study explores land types as a basis for evaluating the sustainability of coconut plantations in Indonesia, focusing on peatlands and coastal areas that affect productivity and management practices. This research aims to evaluate the sustainability of coconut plantation farming across various land types and identify critical sustainability factors. Carried out in Indragiri Hilir Regency, Riau Province, the study employed a survey methodology and utilized Rap-Coconut Ordination Analysis coupled with Multidimensional Scaling (MDS). The surveyed area encompasses peatlands and coastlands, and a purposive sampling approach, guided by the Slovin Formula, yielded a sample size of 101 coconut farmers. The sustainability assessment covered five dimensions: ecological (7 attributes), social-cultural (4 attributes), economic (4 attributes), technological (6 attributes), and institutional (7 attributes) and 28 attributes. The study assessed the sustainability of coconut farming in Indragiri Hilir Regency, Riau Province. Peatlands showed lower sustainability, while coastline lands demonstrated higher sustainability levels. Key factors affecting sustainability include ecological aspects like fertilizer and pesticide use, socio-cultural elements like family involvement and attitudes towards coconut farming, economic factors like the coconut vending system, technological considerations such as optimal planting spacing and seed quality, and institutional factors like participation in extension programs and access to financial resources.

Dopamine and Endorphins: A Study of Speed in Fashion as a Mechanism of Desire

This study delves into the contrasting mechanisms of fast fashion and slow fashion, examining how they operate as expressions of human desire driven by distinct neurological and philosophical underpinnings. Fast fashion, fueled by rapid production cycles and the influence of technology and capital, leverages dopamine-driven mechanisms to provide instant gratification. This model aligns with the short-term reward system, reinforcing consumer behaviors that lead to continuous purchases and cyclical consumption. However, this pursuit often results in environmental degradation, resource overuse, and psychological exhaustion among consumers. In contrast, slow fashion embodies a counter-narrative that emphasizes quality, sustainability, and long-term satisfaction, aligning with the endorphin-driven mechanisms. These endorphins, associated with deeper emotional fulfillment and resilience through challenges, promote a reflective, meaningful consumer experience. The philosophical analysis incorporates Schopenhauer’s concept of insatiable will, paralleling the endless desire perpetuated by fast fashion, and Nietzsche’s idea of the will to power, suggesting slow fashion as a creative and life-affirming response that embraces challenge and meaning. Ultimately, the article argues that while both fast and slow fashion engage human desire mechanisms, their impacts differ vastly in terms of sustainability, psychological well-being, and existential fulfillment. The study calls for a broader exploration of how technology, culture, and ethical considerations can reshape fashion consumption toward more sustainable and emotionally satisfying practices.

Wood Harvesting Practices, Technologies and Safety Considerations in Small-Scale Private Forests in Uganda

Wood Harvesting Practices, Technologies and Safety Considerations in Small-Scale Private Forests in Uganda

Advancing Heart Failure Treatment: The Role of Multipoint Pacing in Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) with biventricular pacing is a standard therapy for patients with heart failure, reduced ejection fraction, and electrical dyssynchrony. However, approximately 30% of patients do not respond to CRT. Multipoint pacing (MPP) has emerged as an innovative strategy that paces multiple left ventricular sites to achieve more comprehensive resynchronization. This review explores the evolution of MPP, including the underlying scientific rationale, clinical evidence from key trials, technological considerations of quadripolar leads and programmability, patient selection criteria, optimization strategies, and future directions. Early feasibility studies demonstrated acute hemodynamic improvements with MPP. Larger trials have shown superior outcomes with MPP compared to conventional biventricular pacing, including increased CRT response rates, reduced hospitalizations, and improved ejection fraction and reverse remodeling. However, recent multicenter trials found no significant differences between the population's MPP and biventricular pacing. Ongoing research aims to refine patient selection for MPP and optimize lead positioning and programming configurations to maximize benefits. As technological capabilities expand, MPP promises to provide tailored, physiological pacing therapies that may enhance outcomes for heart failure patients requiring CRT. This comprehensive review examines the various aspects of MPP, including its scientific foundation, clinical evidence, technological considerations, impact on patient quality of life, and future implications. By critically assessing the current literature and identifying gaps in knowledge, we aim to provide a thorough understanding of MPP’s role in the evolving landscape of heart failure management.

Food packaging technology considerations for designers: Attending to food, consumer, manufacturer, and environmental issues.

Food packaging is essential for preserving food safety and quality while also addressing environmental concerns. Designers are at the forefront of developing packaging solutions that not only meet functional requirements but also align with evolving consumer preferences and sustainability concerns. To inform designers, this paper discusses fundamental principles of food packaging technology, encompassing aspects such as food preservation, distribution, marketing, usability, and disposal. It provides examples of innovations in active and smart packaging, nanotechnology, material biodegradability, and recyclability, as well as strategies to reduce packaging waste. By providing future food packaging designers with this essential knowledge and these insights, we hope to encourage them to contribute to future innovations that meet the needs of consumers and the environment.

Supply Chain Environmental Uncertainty, Competitive Advantage, and Operational Performance in Manufacturing Industry

Goal: This study investigates the impact of Supply Chain Environmental Uncertainty (SCEU) on competitive advantage and operational performance in manufacturing companies. The mediating role of competitive advantage and the moderating role of supply chain environmental uncertainty in the relationship between competitive advantage and operational performance were examined. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: This paper used quantitative approach to confirm the conceptual model. Data was collected through questionnaires from directors/operational managers in 121 large and medium-scale manufacturing companies in Southeast Sulawesi Indonesia. The analysis employs Generalized Structured Component Analysis (GSCA) to test the direct, mediating, and moderating effects of supply chain environmental uncertainty. Results: The findings demonstrate a significant positive influence of supply chain environmental uncertainty on competitive advantage and operational performance. However, competitive advantage does not significantly affect operational performance. The study reveals that competitive advantage is perfect mediator between supply chain environmental uncertainty and operational performance, while supply chain environmental uncertainty is a moderating predictor between competitive advantage and operational performance. Practical Implications: The research has implications for manufacturing company managers adapting to supply chain environmental uncertainty through supplier, customer, and technology considerations. It emphasizes the importance of adapting to supply chain environmental uncertainty to enhancing competitive advantage and operational performance in the manufacturing industry. Efforts to improve operational performance and strategically integrate competitive advantage should consider the business environment, including suppliers, customers, and technology. Limitations: This research is limited to large and medium-scale manufacturing industries, hindering generalization to other industries, particularly small-scale ones. Additionally, researchers can consider additional contextual factors such as supply chain integration, supply chain agility, and total quality management. Originality/Value: This study expands the theoretical framework of supply chain environmental uncertainty, competitive advantage, and operational performance through empirical testing of a theoretical model. The findings support the proposed model's validity and highlight the mediation role of competitive advantage and supply chain environmental uncertainty, providing a reference for future theory development and model building.

Transformative Impact of Convolutional Neural Networks on Healthcare, Autonomous Systems, and Global Technological Advancements

Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have significantly impacted various industries by enabling machines to process visual data with unprecedented accuracy. This paper explores the transformative effects of CNNs on key sectors such as healthcare, autonomous systems, security, and environmental monitoring. In healthcare, CNNs are used in medical imaging for early diagnosis and treatment planning, enhancing telemedicine capabilities. In autonomous systems, CNNs enable real-time object detection and navigation, contributing to the development of safer, more efficient vehicles. In security, CNNs power facial recognition systems, raising both opportunities and ethical concerns regarding privacy and surveillance. Environmental monitoring benefits from CNNs through climate change research and wildlife conservation efforts, where they analyze vast amounts of data for critical insights. The paper also addresses the challenges posed by CNNs, including data privacy, security, and algorithmic bias, emphasizing the need for ethical standards and regulatory frameworks. Future advancements in CNN architectures and their integration with other AI models are expected to expand their applicability further and improve performance across different domains. This analysis underscores the dual importance of technological progress and ethical considerations to ensure that the benefits of CNNs are equitably distributed, contributing positively to global technological development and societal well-being.

Remote science at sea with remotely operated vehicles.

Conducting sea-going ocean science no longer needs to be limited to the number of berths on a ship given that telecommunications, computing, and networking technologies onboard ships have become familiar mechanisms for expanding scientists' reach from onshore. The oceanographic community routinely works with remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and pilots to access real-time video and data from the deep sea, while onboard a ship. The extension of using an ROV and its host vessel's live-streaming capabilities has been popularized for almost 3 decades as a telepresence technology. Telepresence-enabled vessels with ROVs have been employed for science, education, and outreach, giving a greater number of communities viewing access to ocean science. However, the slower development of technologies and social processes enabling sustained real-time involvement between scientists on-ship and onshore undermines the potential for broader access, which limits the possibility of increasing inclusivity and discoveries through a diversity of knowledge and capabilities. This article reviews ocean scientists' use of telepresence for ROV-based deep-sea research and funded studies of telepresence capabilities. The authors summarize these studies findings and conditions that lead to defining the use of telepresence-enabled vessels for "remote science at sea." Authors define remote science at sea as a type of ocean expedition, an additional capability, not a replacement for all practices by which scientists conduct ocean research. Remote science for ocean research is an expedition at-sea directed by a distributed science team working together from at least two locations (on-ship and onshore) to complete their science objectives for which primary data is acquired by robotic technologies, with connectivity supported by a high-bandwidth satellite and the telepresence-enabled ship's technologies to support the science team actively engaged before, during, and after dives across worksites. The growth of productive ocean expeditions with remote science is met with social, technical, and logistical challenges that impede the ability of remote scientists to succeed. In this article, authors review telepresence-enabled ocean science, define and situate the adjoined model of remote science at sea, and some infrastructural, technological and social considerations for conducting and further developing remote science at sea.

HiveLaw: Propelling the Nelson Mandela University Law Clinic into the Future: A Consideration of Technology's Integral Role in Modern Legal Service Delivery and the Consequences for Legal Education

HiveLaw: Propelling the Nelson Mandela University Law Clinic into the Future: A Consideration of Technology's Integral Role in Modern Legal Service Delivery and the Consequences for Legal Education

The future of clean energy: Agricultural residues as a bioethanol source and its ecological impacts in Africa

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of Africa's potential to produce bioethanol from agricultural residues and its environmental impact. The relentless consumption of fossil fuels and associated environmental challenges necessitate a shift toward sustainable energy sources, with bioethanol emerging as a promising alternative. This study evaluates the capacity for bioethanol generation from agricultural residues in Africa, considering its land, water, and carbon footprints. Based on data from 85 primary agricultural residues across Africa, approximately 102.256 Gt of fresh agricultural residue is estimated to be available in Africa, translating to approximately 62.117 Gt of dry-weight material. This significant capacity indicates a substantial potential for bioethanol production in Africa, corresponding to a net output of 207.127 EJ. The coproduction potential of bioethanol and electricity are also highlighted, with electricity accounting for 8.016 % of the total net bioethanol energy production. However, the environmental impact of bioethanol production varies across African nations, suggesting the need for optimization and sustainable practices. Additionally, the study discusses the challenges encountered in the bioethanol sector, including the sustainability of production, emission reduction, technological and financial constraints, and the broader context of biomass usage. In conclusion, although bioethanol production from agricultural residues is a promising alternative for Africa's energy sector, it should be realized only after a multifaceted assessment involving technological, economic, policy, and environmental considerations.

Paediatric family activation rapid response (FARR) in acute care: a qualitative study for developing a multilingual application (app) intervention

BackgroundDelayed recognition of clinical deterioration can result in harm to patients. Parents/carers can often recognise changes in the child’s condition before healthcare professionals (HCPs). To mitigate the risk of failure...

AI-induced job impact: Complementary or substitution? Empirical insights and sustainable technology considerations

This study utilizes 3,682 full-time workers to examine perceptions of AI-induced job displacement risk and evaluate AI's potential complementary effects on labor. By distinguishing between these variables, the research identifies which worker characteristics and industries are most affected by AI. Employing an extended ordered probit model, the results show that those with higher perceived risks are mainly female, older, and more educated. Workers with frequent internet usage and remote work are more concerned about AI-induced job risks. Sector-wise, entry-level employees perceive the least risk, whereas manufacturing professionals and senior service sector employees are more apprehensive. Contrary to the mainstream assumption that AI causes unemployment, this study identifies a potential complementary effect on job tasks, suggesting that AI can enhance and support human labor rather than replace it. This inference is based on observed worker perceptions and the increased use of AI tools in tasks that complement human skills. Moreover, AI's integration contributes to sustainable practices and entrepreneurial opportunities, enhancing business innovation and environmental efficiency. Workers increasingly view AI as a value-added element in their jobs rather than a threat, particularly in sectors focusing on sustainable development and green technologies.

The Impact of Parasocial Relationships and Self-Congruity on Online Purchasing Decisions: The Mediating Role of Fear of Missing Out

The widespread adoption of digital technology has significantly altered consumer purchasing habits in the online arena. Online purchasing decisions have become critical to consumer behavior, involving various complex psychological, social, economic, and technological considerations. This study examines how three key factors, parasocial relationships (PR), self-congruity (SC), and fear of missing out (FoMO), influence online purchasing decisions (OPD). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to determine the influence of PR and SC on OPD and to discover any essential mediating factors in this association. Data was gathered empirically from 286 consumers who completed the entire online survey form. The results showed no statistically significant direct influence of PR or SC on OPD. However, this study found that FoMO is essential in mediating the interaction of PR, SC, and OPD. It implies that the association between PR and OPD is due to FoMO inclinations. As such, this work verifies FoMO's role as a mediator in the relationship between SC and OPD. The findings imply that a match between a person's self-congruity and a specific brand or product influences their online purchasing decisions through FoMO.