Technological Factors Research Articles

Sustainable illumination: experimental and simulation analysis of illumination for workers wellbeing in the workplace

Incorporating an illumination optimization plan into the worker safety management process in industrials is essential since the quality of workplace illumination has a significant impact on workers' well-being. The purpose of this study was to optimize illumination conditions in industrial workspaces using light-emitting diode (LED) technology with a color temperature of 6500 K and a CRI of 85%. To accomplish this, the DIALux illumination simulation tool was utilized. It was validated using measured illumination data from a lux meter (ST-1300 model 1308). Four factors—the number of luminaires, the effective height of the luminaires, the illumination technology, and the light loss factor—were applied to configure sixteen simulation scenarios. Subsequently, eleven quadratic polynomial equations were proposed for estimating the changes in the average illumination in eleven workplaces using the multiple regression analysis technique on the simulatively prepared dataset. The final step was assessing the desirability degree of the suitable illumination scenario. It was discovered that the DIALux software's illumination simulation error percentage fell within an acceptable range. The illumination technology factor had the greatest impact on the average illumination of workplaces. The most impactful interaction terms of the factors were illumination technology and the number of luminaires. For every workplace, the optimized illumination's desirability degree was expected to be more than 0.9. The proposed approach yields promising results and can be a valuable tool for improving the illumination conditions of workers in industries.

Impact of technological factors on diamine oxidase (DAO) activity in porcine kidney extracts as active ingredient for the dietary management of histamine intolerance

Histamine intolerance is associated with impaired histamine metabolism due to diamine-oxidase (DAO) enzyme deficiency at intestinal level. The recommended strategy to alleviate the symptomatology is a low-histamine diet supplemented with DAO. Different sources of DAO enzyme have been characterized in the literature (animal, vegetal and microbial), although only the porcine kidney protein extract has been approved as food supplement. Despite optimistic clinical results of DAO supplementation, variability in enzymatic activity of this type of active ingredient is reported, potentially linked to manufacturing processes. The aim of this work was to evaluate the impact of the raw material and the technological process of obtaining the porcine kidney protein extract on DAO activity, and its evolution during storage at room temperature (25 °C) and refrigeration (4 °C). Twenty batches of DAO-containing extract were analyzed and found to have a consistent histamine-degrading activity. The powder extract was prepared by mincing and homogenizing porcine kidneys, defatting with acetone, and drying at 40 °C for 6 h. The inclusion of a biocidal step before acetone extraction was evaluated on DAO activity. The use of sodium hypochlorite and irradiation (8kGy) did not have a negative impact on DAO activity. Moreover, the inclusion of an initial freeze-drying step of the raw material yielded an extract with higher DAO activity. On the other hand, the effect of applying higher temperatures (70 °C, 80 °C, and 90 °C) during the extract drying process for 3 and 6 h was evaluated, reporting a significant decrease of the enzymatic activity, with losses of 10–20 % for every 10 °C increase in temperature. Refrigeration was the only storage method capable of preserving enzymatic activity for at least 24 months. The manufacturing and storage of porcine kidney extract are crucial steps in the formulation of DAO supplements suitable for the treatment of histamine intolerance.

Internet addiction prevalence and associated factors among secondary-level private school students in urban Nepal: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo estimate the prevalence of internet addiction and its associated factors among secondary-level private school students in an urban municipality in Nepal.DesignCross sectional.SettingPrivate schools in Budhanilkantha Municipality, Kathmandu District in...

Unveiling the Dynamic Mechanisms of Generative AI in English Language Learning: A Hybrid Study Based on fsQCA and System Dynamics.

The burgeoning development of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has unleashed transformative potential in reshaping English language education. However, the complex interplay of learner, technology, pedagogy, and contextual factors that shape the effectiveness of GenAI-assisted language learning remains underexplored. This study employed a novel mixed-methods approach, integrating qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) and system dynamics (SD) modeling, to unravel the multi-dimensional, dynamic mechanisms underlying the impact of GenAI on English learning outcomes in higher education. Leveraging a sample of 33 English classes at the Harbin Institute of Technology, the QCA results revealed four distinct configurational paths to high and low learning effectiveness, highlighting the necessary and sufficient conditions for optimal GenAI integration. The SD simulation further captured the emergent, nonlinear feedback processes among learner attributes, human-computer interaction, pedagogical practices, and ethical considerations, shedding light on the temporal evolution of the GenAI-empowered language-learning ecosystem. The findings contribute to the theoretical advancement of intelligent language education by constructing an integrative framework encompassing learner, technology, pedagogy, and context dimensions. Practical implications are generated to guide the responsible design, implementation, and optimization of GenAI in English language education, paving the way for learner-centric, adaptive learning experiences in the intelligence era.

Digital Health Technology on Patient Recovery and Nurse Performance in Indonesia

This study investigates the impact of digital health technology, nurse competence, patient safety protocols, and organizational support on patient recovery and nurse performance within the Indonesian healthcare sector. Utilizing a quantitative approach, data were collected from 120 healthcare professionals through structured questionnaires and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS 3). The findings reveal that digital health technology, nurse competence, and patient safety protocols positively influence patient recovery, while organizational support and digital health technology significantly enhance nurse performance. Organizational support and patient safety protocols emerged as the strongest predictors of nurse performance and patient recovery, respectively. These results suggest that a comprehensive approach integrating technological, safety, and support factors can substantially improve healthcare outcomes. This study offers practical recommendations for healthcare administrators and policymakers to enhance healthcare quality through strategic investments in digital tools, training, safety protocols, and supportive work environments.

The eMoney revolution: how culture and technology drive adoption and use?

Purpose The use of electronic money (eMoney) as a noncash payment method is gaining popularity globally. However, the usages of eMoney are culturally influenced and can vary within a country. These cultural disparities can result in divergent patterns of eMoney adoption and use. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption and use of eMoney in Indonesia. This study integrated the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model with Hofstede’s cultural dimensions to develop a framework examining both technological and cultural perspectives. Design/methodology/approach Data was collected through an online survey of 484 Indonesians and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. Findings The results showed that the constructs of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model, namely, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions, all had a significant impact on behavioral intention to adopt eMoney as well as actual usage. However, not all of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions moderated these relationships as hypothesized. Surprisingly, masculinity/femininity and power distance emerged as important moderators of eMoney usage. Practical implications This integrated model provides valuable insights into how to consider cultural influences when designing strategies to promote new payment technologies in Indonesia. The findings point to both technological and cultural factors shaping patterns of adoption and use of eMoney in the country. Originality/value Although many research has looked at how culture affects the acceptability of technology in banking, few studies have looked at how culture affects the use of mobile money. This study offers a valuable contribution by investigating how Indonesian culture moderates the relationship between behavioral intentions and actual use of eMoney. The findings provide guidance for practitioners seeking to facilitate eMoney services in developing markets by elucidating the cultural factors that most influence customer adoption. As such, this research fills an important gap regarding the understudied domain of mobile money and its intersection with national culture.

Measuring the Influence of Industrialization in Deep Energy Renovations: A Three-Case Study Utilizing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Existing buildings in the European Union account for 40% of its energy consumption. To significantly reduce this impact, annual deep energy renovation rates should triple by the end of the 2020s. However, the lack of automation in the construction industry has hindered energy renovation efforts. Horizon Europe’s INPERSO project (Industrialised and Personalised Renovation for Sustainable Societies) aims to create a user-centered energy rehabilitation method based on industrialized technologies and systems, enhancing efficiency and building performance. To bridge the gap between predictions and real-world outcomes, the 22 project partners—using a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) process—devised a list of key performance indicators (KPIs) for evaluating rehabilitation based on economic, energy, environmental, social, and technological factors. Adopting a human-centric approach, these project partners aim to minimize the technologies’ environmental impact while optimizing users’ comfort and experience. The indicators are designed to evaluate performance at every stage of the renovation process, enabling continuous feedback and user engagement and ultimately ensuring that projected energy savings are met throughout the building’s lifespan. The KPIs selected for INPERSO provide a solid framework for evaluating and monitoring sustainable renovation. However, challenges such as administrative reluctance and user disruption must be addressed to further boost the adoption of deep energy renovations.

Modelling E-Government Maturity Determinants at the Local Level in Indonesia Using Technology-Organization-Environment Framework

Local governments in Indonesia have adopted e-government, but the maturity has not met the expected target. The distribution of the achievement of the SPBE index (as a representation of e-government maturity in the context of Indonesia) with a bare minimum “Good” predicate centered on the island of Java raises questions regarding the determinants of success. Existing studies and models on the determinants of e-government maturity mainly focus on local governments in developed countries. This study aims to explore the determinants in the context of local government in developing countries by proposing a new model using the Technology- Organization-Environment (TOE) Framework and assessing the model. The model comprises eight determinants reflecting three variables: technology, organisation, and environment, which can influence the level of e-government maturity in Indonesia. The assessment applies the PLS- SEM multivariate analysis method involving 383 district/city governments in Indonesia in 2021. The results show that the proposed model has adequate validity and reliability, indicating that technology factors (technology and electricity infrastructure), organisational factors (innovative, finance and HR capacity), and environmental factors (human capital, human development, and community welfare) have a significant positive effect on e-government maturity. However, the assessment shows that the model quality measurement is only 31.9% accurate, which is considered weak. Model refinement by strengthening the organisational and environmental variables is needed, and fit-model testing is suggested for further research.

Living in the Digital Age: AI Technology and the Changing Lifestyle of the Elderly

As technology advances, diverse artificial intelligence products are invented and put into use. While dramatically improving the quality of human life, digital technologies are also changing the lifestyles of different groups to varying degrees. Focusing on the elderly population, this study utilizes a combination of questionnaire, interview, and documentary research methods in hopes of collecting information in a broad and comprehensive manner. The study mainly focuses on how AI technologies in the digital age are changing the lifestyles of older people and the potential factors that lead to such changes. The study reveals that the digital age has a dual impact on the lives of older people. Thanks to the intelligence and simplicity of AI technology, older people’s lives have become much more efficient and convenient. However, the expensive price of AI devices and products, which also keeps some older people from enjoying the convenience of technological inventions, prevents them from integrating into the digital society. Among many lifestyles, changes in home-based lifestyles are the areas of greatest change in the lifestyles of the elderly in the digital age. These changes are mainly influenced by social, technological and personal factors. The present study expresses ample social concerns for the elderly population. It also conducive to helping older people fully integrate into a smart and convenient life and equally enjoy the dividends of the digital age.

Exploring Smart Mobility Potential in Kinshasa (DR-Congo) as a Contribution to Mastering Traffic Congestion and Improving Road Safety: A Comprehensive Feasibility Assessment

The urban landscape of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, faces significant mobility challenges, primarily stemming from rapid urbanization, overpopulation, and outdated infrastructure. These challenges necessitate the exploration of modern smart mobility concepts to improve traffic flow, road safety, and sustainability. This study investigates the potential of solutions such as Mobility-as-a-Service, car sharing, micro-mobility, Vehicle-as-a-Service, and electric vehicles in addressing these challenges. Through a comparative analysis of global implementations, this research identifies key success factors and barriers that inform the feasibility of integrating these solutions into Kinshasa’s unique socio-political and infrastructural context. The study presents a conceptual framework, supported by stakeholder analysis, for adapting these solutions locally. A detailed feasibility analysis considers technological, economic, social, environmental, and regulatory factors, offering a clear roadmap for implementation. Drawing on lessons from cities facing similar urban mobility challenges, the paper concludes with actionable recommendations and insights for policymakers and urban planners in Kinshasa. This research not only highlights the viability of smart mobility solutions in Kinshasa but also contributes to the broader discourse on sustainable urban development in rapidly growing cities. While smart mobility studies have largely focused on cities with developed infrastructure, there is a gap in understanding how these solutions apply to cities like Kinshasa with different infrastructural and socio-political contexts. Previous research has often overlooked the challenges of integrating smart mobility in rapidly urbanizing cities with underdeveloped transportation systems and financial constraints. This study fills that gap by offering a feasibility analysis tailored to Kinshasa, assessing smart mobility solutions for its traffic congestion and road safety issues. The smart mobility solutions studied—Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS), car sharing, electric vehicles (EVs), and micro-mobility—were chosen for their ability to address Kinshasa’s key mobility challenges. MaaS reduces reliance on private vehicles, easing congestion and improving public transport. Car sharing offers affordable alternatives to vehicle ownership, essential in a city with income inequality. EVs align with sustainability goals by reducing emissions, while micro-mobility (bikes and e-scooters) improves last-mile connectivity, addressing public transit gaps. These solutions are adaptable to Kinshasa’s context and offer scalable, sustainable improvements for urban mobility.

Cybercrime in Nordic countries: a scoping review on demographic, socioeconomic, and technological determinants

Knowledge of factors contributing to cybercrime threats is needed to plan effective prevention strategies to combat the increasingly common occurrence of cybercrime. This scoping review summarizes current status of the literature published on the demographic, socioeconomic, and technological determinants of cybercrime offenders and victims in Nordic countries. The review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s methodology and the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, leading to the selection of 16 articles published between 2013 and 2022 for critical appraisal and data extraction. Only two studies focused on cybercrime offenders. The majority of studies (n = 10) were conducted in Finland and the dominant types of crime were harassment and online hate. Age, gender, living alone, immigration background, income, and education played different roles in determining victimization for different types of cybercrime. Associations between victimization and technological factors such as computer skills, protective measures, and specific platforms have also been identified. This review contributes to the emerging research area of cybercrime in Nordic countries by mapping the context of cybercrime and highlighting areas where further research is needed to ensure the protection of individuals in an increasingly digitalized world.

Understanding Consumer Intentions to Engage with Artificial Intelligence and Voice Assistants: A Conceptual Framework

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has grown extensively in recent times and is becoming integrated into human lives. This progression opens diverse opportunities in e-health, facilitating healthcare accessibility globally. Voice assistants are AI-driven technologies, which are becoming increasingly important with the growing prominence of e-health services. This study offers an integrated model that assimilates AI attributes with relevant constructs from various theories such as Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Health Belief Model (HBM). Key variables under scrutiny include perceived anthropomorphism, perceived intelligence, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, perceived enjoyment, attitude, perceived severity, and perceived susceptibility. The article adds to the current research by reviewing the literature about AI in healthcare, and proposing a conceptual framework that binds technological, AI-specific, and health factors, offering implications for policymakers, healthcare administrators, and marketers seeking effective utilization of voice assistant technology.

Tracing the origin of raw materials used for the production of ancient ceramics: a case study of multi-period archaeological sites in the Turopolje area (Continental Croatia)

The selection of raw materials for ancient pottery production was influenced by a variety of technological and cultural factors, underscoring the importance of characterising these materials to understand the technology of ancient societies. This research examines ancient ceramics from two multi-period archaeological sites: Staro Čiče-Gradišće (Neolithic, Copper Age, Copper/Early Bronze Age, Early Bronze Age, Late Bronze Age, Roman period, and Late Mediaeval period) and Kurilovec-Belinščica (Early Bronze Age and Middle/Late Bronze Age), alongside potential clayey raw materials collected near these settlements. Using a multi-analytical approach (optical microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, mass and emission spectrometry, and laser granulometry), the research aims to determine the characteristics of the paste recipes (raw clay and tempers) and to examine the type and provenience of the raw materials used for ancient pottery production over different periods of the past (from the Neolithic to the Late Mediaeval period). The results showed that ancient potters preferred to use moderately plastic, sandy clay, while Bronze Age potters often used highly plastic clay. Potters utilised various non-plastic tempering materials, such as sands and gravels, grog, and mollusc shells, with their choice being influenced by the need to enhance technological properties as well as by regional and culturally determined pottery traditions. Most of the ceramics are of local origin, made from easily available raw materials that represent flood sediments of the nearby Sava River. However, non-local materials were detected in Neolithic samples, indicating the presence of exchange networks among those communities.

The Impact of Technological-Organizational-Environmental (TOE) Factors on Homestay Performance

Homestay have been a part of the tourism industry for a long time, however, their prevalence is still lower than the other travel-related services. Determining the factors that homestays should have to improve their performance and level them with other tourism services is the goal of this pilot study. Thus, this study aims to investigate how homestay performance can be improved by using the TOE Framework. To do this, a self-administered questionnaire was distributed among 50 homestay coordinators in the pilot study. To verify the validity and internal consistency of the measures, a few tests were carried out on the data by using SPSS 29 software. The three factors examined in this study which are technology, organization and environment factors were all determined to be significant. The findings show that homestays should give each of these factors top priority if they want to improve their performance and stay competitive in the tourism industry. In conclusion, the uniqueness of this study has contributed to the development of the most effective homestay business plan and provided empirical data for the study, both of which are essential resources for decision-makers engaged in the execution of future research.

Deconstructing the Complex Network of Student Satisfaction in Open and Distance Learning: An Application of Structural Equation Modeling

The rapid spread of open and distance learning (ODL) in higher education has sparked a strong interest in the determinants of student satisfaction. Although previous studies have explored various factors that influence satisfaction, a comprehensive model integrating multiple dimensions is still lacking. This study proposes and empirically tests a comprehensive structural equation model of ODL student satisfaction, incorporating interaction, instructor quality, learning management system (LMS), assessment, and student self-regulation as key predictors. Based on constructivist, collaborative, and cognitive information processing theories, we hypothesize direct effects and mediation relationships between these constructs. Data collected from 1,450 students at a large open university in China were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The results reveal complex interrelationships among the predictors, with interaction and self-regulation emerging as key mediating variables. This study contributes to the ODL literature by providing a nuanced understanding of the satisfaction formation process and offers practical implications for improving the ODL experience. Our findings highlight the need for a holistic approach to ODL design and implementation, emphasizing the synergistic effects of technology, instructional, and personal factors in fostering student satisfaction.

The primary care in providing care for inflammatory bowel diseases: PEST analysis

Aim of the study. The study of macroeconomic (external) environmental factors influencing primary healthcare level as the main link in routing a patient with inflammatory bowel diseases and providing quality care.Materials and methods. The opinion of three experts on 4 groups of indicators (political, economic, social and technological) in the context of their impact on the outpatient level of care for inflammatory bowel diseases in the next 3-5 years is analyzed. All factors were taken into account based on the strength of their influence (from 1 to 3) and the probability of variability. Then, according to the methodology, a weight-adjusted score was determined.Results and discussion. The analysis of environmental factors on the effectiveness of medical care for inflammatory bowel diseases in primary health care has shown the importance of both technological factors (availability of information systems, telemedicine technologies, innovative techniques), political (related to the regulation of the health system at the Ministry level, the existing Standard, labor policy, the level of knowledge of doctors and preventive measures) and economic (financing of the system health care, developed infrastructure, income of the population and accessibility of services); socio-cultural factors are slightly less significant, primarily related to joint responsibility for the health of citizens, the level of education of the population, the degree of trust in medicine and the existing inflated expectations of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases.Conclusions. The analysis showed an obviously significant influence of technological, political and economic factors on the quality of care provided for inflammatory bowel diseases in primary health care. It is obvious that socio-cultural factors, primarily related to joint responsibility for the health of citizens, the level of education of the population, the degree of trust in medicine and the existing high expectations of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, are comparatively less significant for the quality of care provided.

Dynamic Simulation of Carbon Emission Peak in City-Scale Building Sector: A Life-Cycle Approach Based on LEAP-SD Model

Systematically predicting carbon emissions in the building sector is crucial for formulating effective policies and plans. However, the timing and potential peak emissions from urban buildings remain unclear. This research integrates socio-economic, urban planning, building technology, and energy consumption factors to develop a LEAP-SD model using Shenzhen as a case study. The model considers the interrelationship between socio-economic development and energy consumption, providing more realistic scenario simulations to predict changes in carbon emissions within the urban building sector. The study investigates potential emission peaks and peak times of buildings under different population and building area development scenarios. The results indicate that achieving carbon peaking by 2030 is challenging under a business as usual (BAU) scenario. However, a 10% greater reduction in energy intensity compared to BAU could result in peaking around 2030. The simulation analysis highlights the significant impact of factors such as population growth rate, per capita residential building area, and energy consumption per unit building area and the need for a comprehensive analysis. It provides more realistic scenario simulations that not only enhance theories and models for predicting carbon emissions but also offer valuable insights for policymakers in establishing effective reduction targets and strategies.

A Holistic Multi-Criteria Assessment of Solar Energy Utilization on Urban Surfaces

Urban surfaces such as rooftops, facades, and infrastructure offer significant potential for solar energy integration, contributing to energy efficiency and sustainability in cities. This article introduces an advanced multi-criteria assessment (MCA) framework designed to evaluate the suitability of various urban surfaces for solar energy deployment. The framework extends beyond traditional economic, environmental, and technological factors to include social, political, legal, health and safety, cultural, and psychological dimensions, providing a comprehensive evaluation of photovoltaic (PV) applications in urban contexts. By synthesizing existing literature and applying this holistic MCA framework, this research offers valuable insights for urban planners, architects, and policymakers, enabling strategic optimization of solar energy integration in urban environments. The findings underscore the importance of sustainable urban development and climate resilience, highlighting key factors influencing solar technology deployment and proposing actionable recommendations to address existing challenges.

"Virtual Parallel Societies"—A Study on the Differences in Mobile Application Usage Between Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese Adolescents

Objective: This study explores the differences in mobile application usage between adolescents in Hong Kong and Mainland China, highlighting how these variances contribute to the formation of virtual parallel societies. Methods: The theoretical framework incorporates Walter Lippmann's Public Opinion and Eli Pariser's Filter Bubbles to explain how algorithm-driven platforms foster informational silos. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, primarily using secondary data from the QuestMobile 2023 China Mobile Internet Annual Report and data from the Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, along with qualitative research methods such as semi-structured interviews and content analysis of social media interactions. Results: The findings suggest significant disparities in app usage between adolescents in Hong Kong and Mainland China, influenced by technological, sociological, and political factors. Adolescents in Hong Kong preferred global platforms like Instagram and Facebook, while Mainland Chinese adolescents used local platforms like WeChat and Weibo. These differences were influenced by sociological factors, including class, education, and access to technology, and contributed to the formation of distinct informational silos. Conclusion: The differences in mobile application usage have led to the development of virtual parallel societies, with implications for national identity and socio-political cohesion. Policy recommendations include enhancing media literacy, promoting Chinese perspectives globally, and encouraging social media platforms that foster a shared national identity.

Digital agriculture’s impact on carbon dioxide emissions varies with the economic development of Chinese provinces

Digital empowerment is a dynamic process of complementary digital technology and production factors and plays a critical role in achieving the dual carbon objectives of the carbon peak by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2060. Here, we use the input-output method, employing panel data on environmental and social factors from 30 provincial-level regions in China from 2012 to 2021. We explore the impact of digital empowerment development on agricultural carbon dioxide emissions and underlying mechanisms. We found that the relationship between digital empowerment and carbon dioxide emissions is nonlinear and follows an inverted U-curve. The carbon dioxide emissions increase as digital empowerment increases and decrease when digital empowerment crosses the inflection point of 0.0862. Digital empowerment reduces agricultural carbon emissions by optimizing carbon-intensive factor inputs such as fertilizers and improving factor allocation efficiency. Our research provides evidence for policymakers to enable the promotion of digital empowerment of farmers across Chinese provinces.