Important Technology Research Articles

Automation and AI in Precision Agriculture: Innovations for Enhanced Crop Management and Sustainability

Precision agriculture is one of the ways to achieve food security and sustainability through better resource-use optimization and crop productivity dealing with the challenges posed by the growing population and addressing environmental concerns. The study offers an in-depth look at the most recent developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation in precision agriculture (PA), with a particular emphasis on important technologies such as drones, autonomous tractors, AI-driven irrigation systems, and predictive analytics for crop management. The accuracy of crop monitoring and health assessments has increased by 30–50 percent as a result of AI-powered solutions, which have improved resource-based decision-making. Systems for precision irrigation and fertilization have increased crop yields by 5–15 percent when using 25–40 percent less water and 30-40 percent less fertilizer, respectively. Robotic harvesters and sprayers are examples of automation technologies that have reduced labor expenses by 20–40 percent and increased operational efficiency by 35 percent. Additionally, AI-based prediction models have reduced pest damage by 20–25 percent and reached an accuracy of 85–90 percent for crop yield forecasts and pest control. Despite these developments, issues of scalability, affordability for small farms, and data privacy still exist, which can hinder technology adoption among farmers. The evaluation follows by outlining ideas for future research, such as 5G, blockchain, and AI integration with cloud and edge computing. These technologies could improve decision-making and transparency in precision agriculture by enabling real-time data transmission, secure data management, and enhanced traceability, thus addressing current limitations and fostering trust among stakeholders.

Age-inclusive hospitality and tourism: navigating the metaverse travel with avatar

Purpose This study aims to investigate the impact of virtual tours on the engagement and travel intentions of older adults, emphasizing the role of emotional and informative content. It aims to enhance travel confidence and reduce stress among older travelers, fostering inclusive tourism through advanced avatar technology. Design/methodology/approach Using two between-subjects experiments, this research compares the effects of emotion-driven and knowledge-centric virtual tours on older adults. It explores the mediating role of travel confidence and stress reduction, along with the moderating influence of positive psychological cues on engagement and travel intentions. Findings The results highlight the potential of technology in promoting inclusive tourism. Emotionally engaging virtual tours significantly increase travel intentions among older adults by boosting confidence and alleviating stress, with positive psychological cues enhancing these effects. Practical implications This study offers valuable insights for tourism industry stakeholders by suggesting the development of avatar-based virtual tours tailored to the emotional and cognitive needs of older travelers. This approach could create more accessible and satisfying tourism experiences for older travelers. Originality/value This study extends the socioemotional selectivity theory to the realm of metaverse travel, providing a novel perspective on the emotional and cognitive engagement of older adults in the metaverse. This underscores the importance of inclusive technology in addressing the needs of older travelers.

Polarization-selective dual-band infrared metamaterial perfect absorber

Abstract Metamaterial absorbers have significant effects and great potential for applications in a variety of important sciences and technologies, including infrared imaging, thermal emitters, electromagnetic shielding, and photodetectors. However, conventional absorbers with a single function are difficult to meet the growing demand of devices, especially for the situations where the absorption and polarization are simultaneously required in infrared detection. If the polarization absorption function is realized by integrating absorption and polarization elements, it will lead to a large overall system size and slow response time. To solve this problem, we propose a dual-band polarization-selective metamaterial perfect absorber, whose maximum absorptions at resonant wavelengths of λ1=2.824μm and λ2=7.622μm are 99.99% and 99.88%, respectively. The absorber exhibits strong polarization sensitivity, absorbing TM-polarized incident light and reflecting TE-polarized incident light at the two resonant wavelengths. The extinction ratios of the absorber at the two referred resonant wavelengths are 90.9 and 142.7, respectively. The proposed absorber would be beneficial for infrared polarization detection and imaging.

Visual Navigation Systems for Maritime Smart Ships: A Survey

The rapid development of artificial intelligence has greatly ensured maritime safety and made outstanding contributions to the protection of the marine environment. However, improving maritime safety still faces many challenges. In this paper, the development background and industry needs of smart ships are first studied. Then, it analyzes the development of smart ships for navigation from various fields such as the technology industry and regulation. Then, the importance of navigation technology is analyzed, and the current status of key technologies of navigation systems is deeply analyzed. Meanwhile, this paper also focuses on single perception technology and integrated perception technology based on single perception technology. As the development of artificial intelligence means that intelligent shipping is inevitably the trend for future shipping, this paper analyzes the future development trend of smart ships and visual navigation systems, providing a clear perspective on the future direction of visual navigation technology for smart ships.

Exploring the research trend and development of sports science technology in the last 4 decades: systematic review

This study systematically reviews the trends and developments in sports science technology over the past four decades. Utilizing a comprehensive systematic review analysis of 1,127 articles from the SCOPUS database, we aimed to identify key subject areas, contributing countries, and prevailing keyword patterns in the field. The analysis highlights a significant increase in publications and citations, indicating the growing importance and recognition of sports science technology. Japan leads in contributions with the highest number of publications and citations, followed by the United States and China. Medicine and engineering emerged as the most influential subject areas, underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of the research. Keyword analysis revealed a strong emphasis on human studies, sports, and the integration of science and technology, reflecting the field's evolving landscape. Findings show that technological advancements such as sensor technology, big data analytics, and virtual reality have revolutionized sports science by enhancing performance monitoring, injury prevention, and rehabilitation processes. The study identifies critical trends and provides insights into future research directions, advocating for continued interdisciplinary collaboration and global cooperation to further advance the field. These insights offer a comprehensive overview of the historical and current state of sports science technology, serving as a roadmap for future innovations and applications. By understanding the development and current trends in sports science technology, researchers and practitioners can better plan and implement effective strategies for improving athletic performance and health, ultimately contributing to the broader field of sports science and technology. Keywords: technological advancements, sensor technology, big data analytics, virtual reality in sports

Safety of Hydrogen Storage Technologies

While hydrogen is regularly discussed as a possible option for storing regenerative energies, its low minimum ignition energy and broad range of explosive concentrations pose safety challenges regarding hydrogen storage, and there are also challenges related to hydrogen production and transport and at the point of use. A risk assessment of the whole hydrogen energy system is necessary to develop hydrogen utilization further. Here, we concentrate on the most important hydrogen storage technologies, especially high-pressure storage, liquid hydrogen in cryogenic tanks, methanol storage, and salt cavern storage. This review aims to study the most recent research results related to these storage techniques by describing typical sensors and explosion protection measures, thus allowing for a risk assessment of hydrogen storage through these technologies.

Fracturability of shale based on rock brittleness and natural fracture tensile reactivation

Exploration and development practices have proved that fracturability evaluation is the primary basis for sucessful fracturing operations. Current studies mainly rely on using traditional physical parameters to evaluate shale fracturability. However, fracture morphology and the extension of natural fractures during fracturing are also crucial for shale fracturability evaluation. In this study, the correlations among factors and rock fracture complexity and natural fracture opening degree were analyzed through 40 sets of related experiments, proposing a new method for shale fracturability evaluation that considers Young's Modulus, shear expansion angle, residual strain, approach angle, and stress variance coefficient. Finally, taking the shale gas field in the Sichuan Basin as an example, a comprehensive evaluation model of shale fracturability was established by using the gray correlation method combined with the core experimental data. One well was selected to compare and analyze the fracturability profile with the stimulated reservoir volume. The results show thatthe peak strain has the most significant influence on the shale fracture complexity, followed by the shear expansion angle and Young's Modulus. The approach angle and the stress difference coefficient affect the degree of natural fracture opening at the same time. The model is accurate because the fractureability values match the study block's stimulated reservoir volume data. This new method of shale fractureability evaluation offers important technology for predicting the fractureability of shale gas reservoirs and optimizing operation schemes.

Leveraging Incremental Learning for Dynamic Modulation Recognition

Modulation recognition is an important technology used to correctly identify the modulation modes of wireless signals and is widely used in cooperative and confrontational scenarios. Traditional modulation-recognition algorithms require the assistance of expert experiences, which constrains their applications. With the rapid development of artificial intelligence in recent years, deep learning (DL) is widely advocated for intelligent modulation recognition. Typically, DL-based modulation-recognition algorithms implicitly assume a relatively static scenario in which the signal samples of all the modulation modes can be completely collected in advance. In practical situations, the radio environment is quite dynamic and the signal samples with new modulation modes may appear sequentially, in which the current DL-based modulation-recognition algorithms may require unacceptable time and computing resource consumption to re-train the optimal model from scratch. In this study, we leveraged incremental learning (IL) and designed a novel IL-based modulation-recognition algorithm that consists of an initial stage and multiple incremental stages. The main novelty of the proposed algorithm lies in the new loss function design in each incremental stage, which combines the distillation loss of recognizing old modulation modes and the cross-entropy loss of recognizing new modulation modes. With the proposed algorithm, the knowledge of the signal samples with new modulation modes can be efficiently learned in the current stage without forgetting the knowledge learned in the previous stages. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm could achieve a recognition accuracy close to the upper bound with a much lower computing time and it outperformed the existing IL-based benchmarks.

Critical analysis of educational theories and their pedagogical practices: the applicability and the impact in the school context

The analysis of the main educational theories – Constructivism, Behaviorism, Socio-Constructivist Theory, Cognitivism, Humanism, and Connectivism – and their practical applications demonstrates the importance of a diverse and adaptive pedagogical approach. Constructivism: Focused on the active construction of knowledge by the student, it promotes meaningful and contextualized learning. Project-based learning (PBL) is a practice that increases student motivation and performance. Behaviorism: Emphasizes changing behavior through positive and negative reinforcements. Classroom reinforcement programs encourage appropriate behaviors, resulting in a more productive learning environment. Socio-Constructivist Theory: Highlights the importance of social and cultural interaction in learning. Methods such as cooperative learning improve academic performance and strengthen collaboration among students. Cognitivism: Focuses on internal thought processes, using tools such as mind maps to help students organize and structure knowledge, promoting critical thinking skills. Humanism: Focused on the student's personal and emotional development, it values ​​self-actualization and well-being. Welcoming learning environments and student-centered curricula promote individual growth. Connectivism: Addresses learning in the digital age, highlighting the importance of information networks and educational technologies. Integrating online platforms expands access to knowledge and involves students and parents more in the educational process.

Development of Assistance Level Adjustment Function for Variable Load on a Forearm-Supported Robotic Walker.

With the progression of an aging society, the importance of walking assistance technology has been increasing. The research and development of robotic walkers for individuals requiring walking support are advancing. However, there was a problem that the conventional constant support amount did not satisfy the propulsion force required for the walking speed that users wanted. In this study, in order to solve this problem, we propose an algorithm for determining the support amount to maintain the walking speed when the average walking speed of each user is set as the target speed. A robotic walker was developed by attaching BLDC motors to an actual walker, along with a control algorithm for assistance based on sampling-type PID control. The effectiveness of the assistance determination algorithm and the usefulness of the parameters were demonstrated through experiments using weights loaded on the forearm support and target speeds. Subsequently, subject experiments were conducted to verify the ability to maintain target speeds, and a questionnaire survey confirmed that the assistance did not interfere with actual walking. The proposed algorithm for determining the assistance levels demonstrated the ability to maintain target speeds and allowed for adjustments in the necessary level of assistance.

The Combination of Biochar and Phosphorus-Containing Materials Can Effectively Enhance the Remediation Capacity of Amaranth on Cadmium-Contaminated Soil and Improve the Structure of Microbial Communities

Cadmium (Cd) pollution in soil has become a huge problem for agricultural production in China and even the world. Passivation and phytoremediation are two important remediation technologies for Cd pollution. In this study, the cadmium-contaminated and phosphorus-poor farmland soil around a mining area in Huainan was taken as the research object, and the remediation effect of biochar and phosphorus-containing materials on soil cadmium pollution was discussed. The results showed that the combined application of biochar and phosphorus-containing materials significantly reduced the pH of non-rhizosphere soil and rhizosphere soil, and increased the content of soil dissolved organic carbon (DOC). The combined application of biochar and phosphorus-containing materials significantly reduced soil pore water Cd and soil available Cd. In addition, both a single application of biochar and synergistic application of biochar and phosphorus-containing materials significantly increased the biomass of aboveground and underground parts of amaranth and soil urease and catalase activities. Phosphorus application reduced the bioavailability of Cd in soil. With the increase in phosphorus application, the content of available Cd in soil decreased significantly, and there was a certain negative correlation between Cd content and phosphorus content in plants. The abundance of beneficial microorganisms such as Ochrobactrum, Anaerolinea, Achromobacter, and Cellvibrio in soil was significantly increased after the synergistic application of biochar and phosphorus-containing materials.

Interactive learning: harnessing technology to alleviate foreign language anxiety in foreign literature education

ABSTRACT This study explores how information technologies can be utilized in foreign literature education (FLE) to alleviate foreign language anxiety (FLA) among Chinese students. FLA, characterized by apprehension and discomfort when engaging with a foreign language, often hampers motivation, confidence, and comprehension, especially in literary contexts. Using a multistage cluster sampling design, data were collected from 455 students through online questionnaires and analyzed with SPSS. The findings reveal that integrating interactive learning technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and gamification, significantly reduces FLA. These technologies foster a supportive and immersive environment, enhancing oral proficiency, cultural understanding, and student confidence. The study introduces innovative strategies to mitigate psychological barriers, contributing valuable insights into the use of technology to create more conducive learning environments. The research underscores the importance of interactive technology in minimizing anxiety, enriching language acquisition, and promoting a more effective and engaging FLE experience.

Basic study of structural health monitoring for layered structures subjected to vibration from a semi-active dynamic vibration absorbers

Vibration suppression of structures and structural health monitoring (SHM) are important technologies for realizing a sustainable society, and as stated in SDGs No. 11 "Sustainable cities and communities,"their importance is widely known. Semi-active dynamic vibration absorbers (SADVA) are used in vibration suppression technology, in addition to passive and active dynamic vibration absorbers. Basically, the physical properties of SADVA, which are passive elements such as the spring constant and viscous damping coefficient, can be changed externally. These dynamic vibration absorbers generally operate only when an earthquake occurs. Here, to achieve SDG No. 12 "Responsible consumption, production," we verify whether it is possible to use some of the SADVA mentioned above for SHM. The vibration data of structures is sometimes used in SHM technology. Specifically, an abnormality is diagnosed by measuring the frequency response with a sensor installed in a structure and focusing on the change in the frequency response between normal and abnormal conditions. In this study, we propose a method to identify the location and level of abnormalities in layered structures using a part of SADVA as a shaker.

AI and Big Data Analytics in Uzbekistan’s Tourism: Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Visitor Satisfaction – A Case Study of Samarkand

This study explores the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics in enhancing operational efficiency and visitor satisfaction in the tourism industry in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Despite the growing importance of digital technologies in tourism, there is limited research on their application in Uzbekistan, particularly in cultural and historical contexts. Using a qualitative case study approach, data was gathered through interviews, surveys, and observations with tourism operators, technology experts, and tourists. The results reveal significant improvements in booking systems, guest services, and personalized offerings, especially benefiting younger and international visitors. These findings demonstrate the potential of AI and big data to transform tourism operations, emphasizing the need for continued investment in digital infrastructure to modernize the sector and preserve cultural heritage.

Preparation and Performance Evaluation of Self-Degrading Temporary Plugging Agent for Well Workover of Fractured Reservoir

Abstract The temporary plugging technology is considered an important technology in the well workover process of oil and gas reservoirs. Gel is a frequently employed temporary plugging agent in oilfields; however, it has drawbacks, including poor cross-linking strength, unpredictable gelation duration, and considerable reservoir damage after application. To solve these issues, this study seeks to create a gel-based temporary plugging agent system that will improve the dependability and efficiency of oilfield development. In the study, acrylamide, hydrophobic monomers, initiators, crosslinkers, inorganic components, and scale inhibitors were used to formulate the temporary plugging agent. To close underground channels, the prepared plugging agent is injected into the underground and gels at high temperatures. In this study, the elastic modulus of the gel was investigated with a HAAKE rheometer, and the core flooding test was carried out to evaluate the plugging efficiency of the gel. Meanwhile, the visual code method was used to observe the formation time of the temporary plugging agent, and the self-degradation performance of the temporary plugging agent was studied. Hydrophobic monomers and inorganic materials significantly enhance the mechanical properties of the temporary plugging agent after forming the glue. The elastic modulus after crosslinking can reach about 450 Pa, and the maximum pressure of plugging can reach 2.4 MPa. The crosslinking time can be controlled within 30 minutes to 10 hours by adding the inhibitor. The crosslinking agent used in the system is ester organic matter, which can be hydrolyzed at high temperatures to achieve self-degradation performance, so that the degradation rate of the temporary plugging agent can reach 90% within 7 days after forming the glue. This temporary plugging agent has high strength, a controlled crosslinking time, and good self-degradation performance as compared to the typical gel-type temporary plugging agent. These qualities are crucial for reservoir protection and well workover.

Evaluating The Role Of International Financial Institutions In Maintaining Financial Stability

This paper examines the functions of IFIs specifically the IMF, World Bank, and BIS in relation to balance of payments in the international financial system. Employing a cross-sectional research methodology, the study analyzes IFI interventions during the Asian Financial Crisis (1997), the Global Financial Crisis (2008), and the COVID-19 pandemic. It evaluates data related to GDP growth, capital flows, and systemic risk measures, and finds that IFIs have a highly positive impact on economic recovery and financial system stability. The study also highlights the importance of advanced technologies, such as big data, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, in improving IFI capacities for evaluating and forecasting financial stability. However, it reveals issues with data quality, methodological limitations, and policy-data gaps, particularly from developing countries where IFIs are crucial. Recommendations are provided for enhancing data acquisition, openness, and the use of big data analytics, along with directions for further research in prognostic modeling and crisis anticipation.

Future school administration as perceived by school principals in distance learning: Developmental suggestions

This study aimed to examine perceptions of school principals regarding future school administration in distance learning and to provide developmental suggestions for future school administration as perceived by school principals in distance learning. To achieve this goal, the researchers employed a qualitative design via personal interviews. The sample consisted of (20) school principals selected purposefully from those who had more than 15 years of experience. According to the results, principals look at the future school administration in distance learning as participatory and teamwork-based collaborative participative administration, with a response percentage of 65%. They believe that future school administration in distance learning is a process based on planning and organization, with a response percentage of 55%. The results also revealed that the most important developmental suggestion lies in training and qualifying the administrative and educational staff regarding the use of technology in education, with a response percentage of 60%. In addition, the respondents suggested to provide suitable strategies to administer the distance learning process, with a response percentage of 50%. In light of the results, a set of recommendations was proposed, most notably, building effective strategic plans should be developed by school principals, with clear future visions and standards that increase teachers' awareness of the importance of education technology. Furthermore, conducting educational workshops on effective distance learning strategies that increase students' interaction and the importance of e-culture for teachers and students and the need to integrate technology into the educational process and its curricula to keep pace with the current era.

The impact of information technology on achieving sustainable development goals

The relationship between information technology and achieving sustainable development goals is a vital topic that deserves attention and study, as technology and information technology play a crucial role in promoting and achieving sustainable development goals in various aspects. Recent research and studies indicate that adopting technology and information technology can lead to increased productivity, saving time and effort, improving government and public services, and enhancing communication and knowledge exchange. At the same time, information technology can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable development by enhancing education and health, promoting equality and social justice, reducing pollution and the effects of climate change, and enhancing economic solutions and alternative methods. For example, information technology contributes to achieving the goal of eradicating poverty through: - Providing online learning platforms to enhance individuals' skills, distance education, i.e. access to education in remote areas that suffer from a lack of educational resources, and online vocational training by providing training programs to improve skills. Therefore, governments, international organizations and individuals must work together to adopt technology and information technology in a sustainable and effective manner to achieve the sustainable development goals. Innovation and investment in technology must be encouraged, awareness and education about the importance of information technology in promoting sustainable development must be promoted, and the correct and effective use of technology must be directed to achieve its benefits in the best possible way. Keywords: Information technology - development - sustainable development.

Unveiling the Future of Safety: Cutting-Edge Simulation Testing of e-Kart Bumpers

Abstract This research project proves the importance of simulation technology in developing safe and efficient components for electric Go-Kart and how this approach could impact the future of automotive design and engineering. The development of electric Go-Kart present unique challenges in ensuring safety and performance, given the increasing demand for eco-friendly mobility solutions in motorsports. As the adoption of the electric vehicles grow, the importance of designing robust and reliable safety components, such as bumpers, become critical to protect drivers and enhance vehicle durability. While previous studies have explored Go-Kart safety and performance, they often relied on traditional testing methods that are time-consuming and limited in their ability to simulate complex crash scenarios. Moreover, many studies have not fully addressed the specific challenges associated with the unique dynamics of electric Go-Kart. This research fills these gaps by focusing on testing electric Go-Kart bumpers through advanced computer simulations used to thoroughly examine various crash and impact scenarios to assess the reliability and durability of the front, side and rear bumpers to improve safety and performance. The results of the stress analysis carried out on the electric Go-Kart body showed that the electric go-kart body experienced displacement and safety factors, with the stress experienced being at a point below the yield strength or yield strength so that the body construction was declared safe against the static loading received, so that the test results this provides detailed insight into material strength, structural design, and possible improvements that can be made to reduce the risk of rider injury.

The Potential of mRNA Vaccines to Fight Against Viruses.

Vaccines have always been a critical tool in preventing infectious diseases. However, the development of traditional vaccines often takes a long time and may struggle to address the challenge of rapidly mutating viruses. The emergence of mRNA technology has brought revolutionary changes to vaccine development, particularly in rapidly responding to the threat of emerging viruses. The global promotion of mRNA vaccines against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has demonstrated the importance of mRNA technology. Also, mRNA vaccines targeting viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and Ebola are under development. These vaccines have shown promising preventive effects and safety profiles in clinical trials, although the duration of immune protection is still under evaluation. However, the development of mRNA vaccines also faces many challenges, such as stability, efficacy, and individual differences in immune response. Researchers adopt various strategies to address these challenges. Anyway, mRNA vaccines have shown enormous potential in combating viral diseases. With further development and technological maturity, mRNA vaccines are expected to have a profound impact on public health and vaccine equity. This review discussed the potential of mRNA vaccines to fight against viruses, current progress in clinical trials, challenges faced, and future prospects, providing a comprehensive scientific basis and reference for future research.