Characteristics Of Technology Research Articles

Framework for adoption of generative AI for information search of retail products and services

PurposeGenerative artificial intelligence (GAI) can disrupt how consumers search for information on retail products/services online by reducing information overload. However, the risk associated with GAI is high, and its widespread adoption for product/service information search purposes is uncertain. This study examined psychological drivers that impact consumer adoption of GAI platforms for retail information search.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted 31 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with the lead GAI users regarding product/service information search. The data were analysed using a grounded theory paradigm and thematic analysis.FindingsResults show that consumers experience uncertainty about GAI’s functioning. Their trust in GAI impacts the adoption and usage of this technology for information search. GAI provides unique settings to investigate potential additional factors, leveraging UTAUT as a theoretical basis. This study identified three overarching themes – technology characteristics, technology readiness and information characteristics – as possible drivers of adoption.Originality/valueConsumers seek exhaustive and reliable information for purchase decisions. Due to the abundance of online information, they experience information overload. GAI platforms reduce information overload by providing synthesized and customized product/service search results. However, its reliability, trustworthiness and accuracy have been questioned. The functioning of GAI is opaque; the popular technology adoption model such as UTAUT is general and is unlikely to explain in totality the adoption and usage of GAI. Hence, this research provides the adoption drivers for this unique technology context. It identifies the determinants/antecedents of relevant UTAUT variables and develops an integrated conceptual model explaining GAI adoption for retail information search.

Virtual Value Engineering in Investment and Construction Activities

Statement of the problem. The Russian investment and construction industries continue to grow, and there is a growing demand for services related to designing and implementing new projects. The introduction of innovative technologies and improvements to construction processes are essential parts of investment and construction efforts in today's world. Engineering plays a significant role in investment and construction projects, as it is involved both in the planning phase and during the implementation stages. Cost engineering is a concept that refers to a set of techniques and tools used to manage the expenses of a project throughout its lifecycle. The integration of investment and construction engineering services with the latest technological advancements is a new but already popular trend in the construction market. Results. This study emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach to facility design, considering the unique characteristics of modern technology and the requirements of participants in investment and construction projects that require operational involvement in project management. Conclusions. The paper supports the introduction of «virtual engineering», which can create a more comfortable environment for all stakeholders in an investment or construction project.

The Financial Inclusion Question in Zimbabwe’s Post-COVID -19, New Normal: Implications for Adoption of Financial Technology (FinTech) on Service Providers

Financial inclusion will be accelerated by the technological opportunities for online financial transactions brought forth by the COVID-19 outbreak. As a result, because there were fewer digital financial transactions, the threats to COVID-19 that were present previously are now more substantial. The aim of this article is to assess the dangers, challenges, and opportunities for financial inclusion brought forth by the use of technology by COVID-19. According to the article, the inherent characteristics of financial technology (FinTech) in connection to financial inclusion allow it to reduce the negative economic and social effects of the ongoing COVID-19 situation. Under COVID-19, the introduction of digital financial transactions has sped up corporate operations and cut expense on doing business. As a result, women now have greater access to transactions involving financial technology (FinTech). The growth of digital financial transactions has made contactless and cashless purchases possible throughout the COVID-19 crisis. The expansion of digital financial inclusion makes it easier to swiftly and effectively implement public assistance programs, such as those for epidemic-affected women. Financial inclusion is being boosted by digital finance, which may eventually replace or improve traditional banking institutions. Working from home has undergone a "revolution" in a number of industries during COVID-19, including banking. Businesses should identify the optimal operating model mix for the future and make sure they have the infrastructure to support widespread, mass flexible working. This calls for reevaluating the function and application of corporate real estate. Since the labor force is likely to become more automated at the same time, resilience is essential. Conceptual Framework of this study is based on the financial inclusion and FinTech concepts which are the main variables guiding the study and it is underpinned by the theories of diffusion of innovation and the Financial Intermediation.

Introduction to cross-arm T pole tower of 110kV transmission line and design verification of double circuit T pole tower

Abstract With the development of various fields in China, users have higher and higher requirements for power reliability. In order to improve the reliability of 110 kV transmission lines, a new type of cross-arm T-connection technology came into being. This paper introduces the characteristics of the original T-connection technology and the new T-connection mode of the new T-connection technology, as well as the design verification of the double-circuit T-connection tower, and draws the conclusion that the new T-connection tower model is reasonable and the force of the rod can be effectively configured.

Pathways to innovation: How city pilots leverage digital technology to reduce carbon emissions

Technological innovation through various pathways is crucial for achieving carbon neutrality and peak carbon emissions. The Innovative City Pilot (ICP) initiative, a key effort to promote national innovation, has garnered increasing attention. However, most studies have not examined the effects of ICP on carbon emissions through diverse digital technologies. Using city-level data from 2000 to 2022, we constructed a staggered difference-in-differences (DID) model to analyze changes in carbon emissions before and after the ICP period in both ICP and non-ICP areas. The carbon emission reduction pathway of the ICP influences various forms of digital technology, which then empower local green product innovation, market-oriented innovation, and industrial innovation. The impact of ICP emission reduction through digital technology is more significant in western, first- and second-tier, sub-provincial, populous, and coastal cities. In conclusion, policymakers should tailor policies according to the action pathways of digital technology and specific city characteristics. We outline the specific pathways of green product innovation, market-oriented innovation, and industrial innovation enabled by digital technologies and provide policy recommendations for the sustainable development of China.

The Use of Telehealth Technology in the Medical Management of Adults with Intellectual Disability: A Scoping Review.

Background: Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) experience substantial inequalities and barriers accessing health care despite requiring constant accessibility to healthcare providers as they are more likely to die from avoidable causes of death than those without ID. Telehealth technologies have the capacity to improve access to health providers and health information and could greatly reduce morbidity and mortality rates in people with ID. This study aims to explore the use of mobile health technology in the medical management of adults with intellectual disability. Methodology: PubMed, IEEE Explore, ACM, and Scopus databases were examined to extract peer-reviewed articles published from January 2000 to January 2022. Original research, published in English and focused on the use of telehealth technologies in the medical management of intellectual disability were deemed eligible. A narrative synthesis of the results was completed, structured around the characteristics of telehealth technologies used and the outcomes of the studies. Results: Thirteen of 1008 reviewed articles were considered eligible for inclusion. Most of the studies used videoconferencing platforms for real-time telehealth, while others focused on symptom or medication monitoring applications. The evidence supports the feasibility, potential effectiveness and satisfaction of using telehealth to manage intellectual disability among adults despite accessibility issues including poor internet connectivity and poor knowledge of technology which may limit its use. Conclusion: The use of telehealth was feasible, acceptable and potentially effective for the management of ID among adults though the varied methodology of included studies maybe inadequate. A more structured methodology will be useful in future studies.

Decoding the Influence of eHealth on Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness in Older Adults: Qualitative Analysis of Self-Determination Through the Motivational Technology Model

Background Older adults adopt and use eHealth systems to build autonomy, competence, and relatedness and engage in healthy behaviors. The motivational technology model posits that technology features, such as those on websites, smart displays, and mobile phones, must allow for navigability, interactivity, and customizability, which spur feelings of self-determination and intrinsic motivation. We studied ElderTree, an online system for older adults that provides on-demand videos of healthy living content, self-monitoring, and weekly researcher-hosted video meetings. Objective We aimed to understand the theoretical crossover between the motivational technology model and self-determination theory using features of ElderTree to understand the usability of the technology and how it may support older adults’ autonomy, competence, and relatedness. Methods Drawing participants from a randomized controlled trial of a mobile health app for older adults with multiple chronic conditions, we conducted qualitative interviews with 22 older adults about their use of the app; the interviews were coded using qualitative thematic analysis. Results Older adults did find that features within ElderTree such as content available on demand, good navigation, and weekly researcher-led video calls supported feelings of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, respectively. Individual differences such as a background using computers also influenced participants’ experiences with the smart displays. Conclusions Participants confirmed the features that increased internal motivation, such as interactivity correlating with feelings of relatedness, but they also found other ways to support autonomous health behavior change beyond narrow views of navigability, interactivity, and customization.

Investigating factors influencing AI customer service adoption: an integrated model of stimulus–organism–response (SOR) and task-technology fit (TTF) theory

PurposeArtificial intelligence (AI) customer service has grown rapidly in recent years due to the emergence of COVID-19 and the growth of the e-commerce industry. Therefore, this study employs the integration of the stimuli–organism–response (SOR) and the task-technology fit (TTF) frameworks to understand the factors that affect individuals’ intentions towards AI customer service adoption in Malaysia.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilised a survey-based research approach to investigate the factors that affect individuals’ intentions towards AI customer service adoption in Malaysia. The data were collected by conducting an online survey targeting individuals aged 18 or above who had prior customer service interaction experience with human service agents but had not yet adopted AI customer service. A sample of 339 respondents was used to evaluate the hypotheses, adopting partial least squares structural equation modelling as a symmetric analytic technique.FindingsThe PLS-SEM analysis revealed that social influence and anthropomorphism have a positive direct relationship with emotional trust. Furthermore, communicative competence, technology characteristics and perceived intelligence were positively correlated with TTF. Moreover, emotional trust significantly impacts AI customer service adoption. In addition, AI readiness positively moderates the association between task technology fit and AI customer service adoption.Practical implicationsThe study provides insights to individuals, organisations, the government and educational institutions to improve the features of AI customer service and its development in Malaysia.Originality/valueThe originality of this study is found in its adoption of the SOR theory and TTF to understand the factors affecting AI customer service adoption. Additionally, it incorporates moderating variables during the analysis, adding depth to the findings. This approach introduces a new perspective on the factors that impact the adoption of AI customer service and offers valuable insights for practitioners seeking to formulate effective strategies to promote its adoption.

Evaluation of the seismic performance of a multi-coil MR damper using non-linear method

Magnetorheological dampers (MR) have the ability to provide high damping and subsequent energy dissipation which has a potential application in mitigation of natural hazard. These features of advanced damping technology achieved from the interaction between magnetic field induced MR fluid and the rod of piston. In this paper, hybrid simulation is evaluated for a Reinforced Concrete (RC) frame with MR Damper under various configuration subjected to dynamic loading is numerically investigated using OpenSees framework and validated experimentally. In OpenSees framework Bouc Wen Material parameters were incorporated by the experimental results of MR Damper. The response of the three RC frames, both numerically and the experimentally having diagonally attached MR damper at 0 A current, 3 A current and without MR damper, were compared for El-Centro excitation. In comparison of results, the specimen with MR Damper at 3 A current displays better performance. Maximum of 23.02 % displacement reduction with 38.35 % frame force increment can be achieved when compared with bare frame. This validation proves the hybrid simulation system has successfully predicted the seismic response of the test specimen.

Research on Vocational Education Reform and Innovation Based on Information Technology Practice

Based on the perspective of information technology reform, higher requirements have been put forward for student management and course teaching in vocational colleges. Therefore, teachers should actively explore suitable opportunities and practical paths to introduce information technology and rely on advanced technology, equipment, and software to promote the reform and development of virtualization, datafication, and intelligence in course teaching. Due to the limitations and influences of various practical factors, teachers face many problems in the application of information technology, which to some extent hinder classroom teaching reform and innovation. Given this, this article discusses the application of information technology, which plays an important role in classroom teaching reform and student ability improvement. This study will briefly explain the concept and characteristics of information technology, analyze the existing problems in current information technology teaching, and finally propose specific reform and innovation practice paths.

Promoting Sustainable Household Engagement in Recycling via Blockchain-Based Loyalty Program

Recycling plays a crucial role in impacting national GDP and environmental sustainability. Given the complexities inherent in recycling processes, technology serves as a driving force for advancing and optimizing these practices. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, substantial initiatives are underway to foster a green environment and promote a circular economy. However, at the time of writing this paper, existing regulations mandate recycling primarily for business sectors, with no corresponding requirements for household waste collection or segregation. As a result, a significant portion of recyclable waste remains unprocessed. This paper expands upon earlier studies carried out in Jeddah, analyzing the obstacles and variables impacting sustainable recycling solutions, along with the essential conditions to boost household involvement in recycling. This study explores the potential of blockchain technology to improve household engagement by developing a blockchain-based loyalty program. The proposed system leverages the decentralized, immutable, and transparent features of blockchain technology to reward individuals with tokens for the recycling waste they produce, thereby facilitating token tracking across the recycling value chain and enhancing transparency in the circular economy. This article delves into the technical architecture of the loyalty program, aligning its domain model elements with blockchain design heuristics and integrating it with a mobile application that aims to boost recycling engagement by applying social economy principles. This innovative approach promises to overcome the current regulatory and motivational barriers, as well as promote sustainable recycling habits at the household level.

Qualitative indicators of milk and fermented milk products when activated zeolite and probiotics are included in the diet of cows

Relevance. The quality of milk depends on the season of the year, the breed of animals, the state of metabolism, and the characteristics of feeding and maintenance technology. The quality of milk determines its technological properties and the quality of its processed products.Methods. The content of somatic cells in milk, the acidity of milk, cottage cheese, yogurt, and syneresis of yogurt were determined. In milk processing products, the content of the mass fraction of nitrogen and crude protein, crude ash, calcium, and phosphorus was determined.Results. When feeding cows with the yeast probiotic activated zeolite and the phytoprobiotic “Provitol”, a significant decrease in the content of somatic cells in freshly milked milk of cows was established by 13.02% (p < 0.05). Significantly lower milk acidity values were established (by 6.00% (p < 0.001) and 12.79% (p < 0.001), respectively), significantly higher yogurt acidity values (by 6.00% (p < 0.001) and 12.79% (p < 0.001), respectively, significantly lower yogurt syneresis (by 4.70% (p < 0.001) and 3.10% (p < 0.01), respectively). The use of activated zeolite and yeast probiotic “Kluver Pro” in the diets leads to a significantly higher content (compared with the control) of the mass fraction of fat in cottage cheese and yogurt — by 10.47 abs. % (p < 0.001) and 4.58 abs. % (p < 0.001).

A Review of Thermal Detectors of THz Radiation Operated at Room Temperature

This article concerns optical detection issues in the terahertz (THz) range. This is a kind of guide to various types of uncooled thermal detectors in the most often applications. Particular attention is paid to the principle of their operation, technology, and practical features. In addition, some detection methods were also characterized by comparing their performances. The article ends with a performance summary of the selected THz thermal detectors.

Composition of biopesticides for crop protection – current state and prospects (review)

Aim. To summarise and analyse available information on research into biopesticide compositions aimed at enhancing their effectiveness and to assess prospects for the development of this field so as to determine the influence of components on the effectiveness of biopesticides for agricultural crop protection.This review article presents the results of studies of components included in the compositions of microorganism‐based biopesticides based on a system analysis. It is noted that the selection of biopesticide components must be carried out in accordance with the requirements for products recommended for use in ecological and organic farming systems. It is indicated that the choice of optimal formulation is associated with the characteristics of the producer strains, their trophic needs and resistance to biotic and abiotic factors and with the characteristics of the biopesticide application technology (seed treatment, application to the soil or treatment of plants during vegetation), as well as the type of equipment used.Knowledge of the basic requirements for biopesticide formulations will help maintain the viability and biological activity of microbial agents during storage of biopesticides, taking into account the sensitivity of producer strains to environmental conditions. Selection of optimal carriers, adhesives, stabilisers, thickeners and synergists, taking into account the technology of application of the biopesticide and the target pathogen, will facilitate the development and appearance on the market of new biopesticides for protecting agricultural crops from diseases.

Criminal Responsibility for AI Crimes

The research focused on the issue of which crimes fall under the jurisdiction of artificial intelligence. The incorporation of AI programs into different aspects of life entails many challenges, especially regarding the liability for the actions performed by AI and the question of compatibility of the existing legislation with the characteristics of the AI technologies. The state of affairs means that the AI-powered robots may perform actions that prescribe criminal provisions of criminal law, thus raising the issue in the given article as to the possibility of direct criminal penalties for robots, the feasibility of putting the intelligent robots’ criminal responsibility into practice by the general principles of the Jordanian Penal Code and the receptiveness of the concept of recognizing the crime to be committed by artificial intelligence. From this perspective, the main research question of the study is: What are the aspects of criminal responsibility stemming from AI mistakes? Thus, its significance is derived from the fact that it explores a new and essential issue, namely, the criminal responsibility for AI crimes within Jordan’s legislation. It has great importance in so many spheres, and it is difficult to describe all the aspects of artificial intelligence. The most remarkable outcomes and suggestions of the study show that the legal guidelines for criminal responsibility in Jordan of artificial intelligence crimes remain unrecognized. Thus, it is advised that the legislator proceed with actions to create legislation controlling AI technologies and their use for the purpose of serving the state and citizens’ interests. This legislation will guarantee the proper application of the AI capacities within several spheres for the sake of the general public, while taking into consideration all the ethical and legal concerns that relate to using artificial intelligence.

Near Real-Time Responsive Flood Event Representation: An Open-Source Interactive Web Application Architecture

Abstract. The adoption of accessible Digital Twin technology in flood applications has been impeded by a notable lack of practical examples. Arguably, the most distinguishing feature of Digital Twin technology is the integration of near real-time data analytics through IoT sensor connectivity, which has remained underutilised in flood applications and therefore indicates a critical research gap. This project endeavoured to develop a comprehensive and replicable open-source architecture framework, specifically tailored for near real-time responsive flood event representation. The resultant interactive web application integrated near real-time river height and rain fall data streams and performed on-demand data analytics. Key results include the establishment of a back-end spatial database, a coupled physical city and digital space model, and a functional holistic front-end user interface. Additionally, this research aligned with the Gemini Principles by emphasising data interoperability and maintaining an information feedback loop. The study also aimed to configure near real-time IoT sensor connections, implement event triggers, and deliver interactive visualisations in an easily accessible format. The research addressed key questions surrounding the effective integration of IoT sensor data, identification of crucial flood indicators and parameters, and rapid quantification of flood event impacts. Ultimately, this research project demonstrates how Digital Twin technology can swiftly provide decision-makers with crucial insights during flood disaster events.

Exploring users' fluidity and adaptation in virtual worlds: metaverse features and interaction of awe and realism

PurposeMetaverse technology has attracted much attention in many contexts, including industry, education, marketing and business. Some recent studies have focused on qualitative studies based on the actual definition of the metaverse. However, practical research related to metaverse platforms remains in its infancy. This study provides actionable insights into the determinants of metaverse adoption by using perceived fluidity.Design/methodology/approachA two-stage structural equation modeling (SEM) approach and Hayes’ Macro approach are used to examine the proposed hypotheses.FindingsResults show that technology features (e.g. real-time rendering, interactivity and immersion) increase users’ perceived fluidity, which in turn leads to positive intentions to use the metaverse. A high level of perceived realism is not an advantage for metaverse technology and plays a negative moderating role in this mechanism. The interaction of awe with technological features can enhance the negative moderating effects of realism.Originality/valueThis study pioneers the examination of perceived fluidity as a key determinant of metaverse adoption, offering a novel perspective beyond traditional factors. It uniquely identifies the paradoxical role of perceived realism, demonstrating its potential negative impact on user experience. In addition, the research highlights the reinforcing effect of awe on this relationship.

Development of a multi-layer high-efficiency GEM-based neutron detector for spallation sources

Neutron detection is nowadays mostly based on 3He gas detectors, but its shortage and the continuous upgrades of the neutron facilities require new devices to perform experiments with maximum performances. This work presents a new detector based on the Gas Electron Multiplier (GEM) combined with several boron layers. This detector combines the features of GEM technology with the properties of boron as a neutron converter and the device is produced to sustain high neutron fluxes with high detection efficiency. The detector has been characterised at the ISIS Pulsed Neutron and Muon Source (UK). Based on the analysis of our results, the detector has shown a good response to thermal and epithermal neutrons reaching a detection efficiency of 16% at 1.8 Å (25 meV). The good detection efficiency (even increasable with the addition of further boron GEM foils) and the good time resolution, make the detector a unique device for the neutron techniques. In particular, its use can easily be envisaged in techniques involving neutron transmission measurements, that require high fluxes impinging on the detectors, with the added bonus of a 2D-resolved capability due to the padded anode.

Analysis on Innovation and Application of Anti-counterfeiting Technology of Printed Matter

This paper deeply focuses on the innovation and application of printed matter anti-counterfeiting technology, through a variety of advanced anti-counterfeiting technology principle, characteristics and rich application examples to carry out a detailed study, a comprehensive and in-depth analysis of its protection of product safety, resolutely prevent counterfeiting and fully maintain market order and other aspects of the key and important role. At the same time, the future development trend of anti-counterfeiting technology and the current severe challenges are deeply discussed, aiming at providing a very valuable and meaningful reference for the in-depth research and practical operation in related fields.

A comparison of 4th and 5th generation thermal networks with energy hub

State-of-the-art thermal networks are key to address decarbonization of the heating and cooling in buildings. Energy Hub considers synergy between elements and allows rapid comparison between district energy systems incorporating 4th generation (4G) and 5th generation (5G) thermal networks at early-stage designs. To better understand and quantify the differences between systems based on 4G and 5G, a mixed-integer linear model distinguishing specific features of both technologies is implemented. We find systems relying on 5G to perform environmentally and financially better than with 4G generation over a wide set of scenarios. This is due to the warm/cold coupling characterizing 5G technologies. Systems based on 5G can also reduce its carbon emissions more than those with 4G. However, performances with both technologies appear sensitive to the topology and location of central energy station.