Digital Age Research Articles

Age-of-Information based Multi-UAV Trajectories Using Deep Reinforcement Learning

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as a unified platform for sensing and communication is especially relevant in environments with inadequate infrastructure. In this paper, a multi-UAV system is constructed for dynamic data collection in a resource-constrained environment. The devised approach involves the implementation of an access platform referred to as the Access UAV (A_UAV). This A_UAV orchestrates the data collection process from Inspection-UAVs (I_UAVs), each equipped with a visual sensor, facilitating the relay of collected data to the cloud. Our approach jointly considers the trajectory scheduling of A_UAV and I_UAV to collect data from specific points in a decentralized manner. Specifically, a Deep Reinforcement Learning framework utilizing an actor-critic network is formulated for A_UAV, aiming to generate an equitable access schedule for I_UAVs. Moreover, trajectory scheduling of A_UAV ensures dynamic data collection while minimizing total system energy and the Age of Information (AoI) of data arriving from I_UAVs. The simulation results validate the performance of our proposed approach against several baselines under different parameter settings.

Fostering digital equity: evaluating impact of digital literacy training on internet outcomes in rural marginalised communities in India

ABSTRACT Digital literacy (DL) training improves the participants’ digital skills and engagements and achieves desired online benefits and opportunities. However, there remains a gap in understanding whether the acquired skills effectively translate into tangible outcomes. This study explores how digital literacy training programs (DLTPs) serve as solutions to mitigate the impact of the digital divide, particularly among marginalised rural populations. Using the corresponding fields’ model, we explored the internet outcomes achieved post-training, as achieving meaningful outcomes is crucial in the digital age. In-depth interviews of 60 beneficiaries of the PMGDISHA programme, a DLTP run by the Government of India, were conducted, and thematic analysis was performed to identify the internet outcomes based on Helsper’s corresponding fields (2012). The findings demonstrate that training significantly impacts digital engagement and internet outcomes across online fields. However, discrepancies in internet outcomes persist among participants, and these disparities are closely linked to participants’ socio-demographic and economic characteristics. To create a more equitable digital landscape, digital inclusion initiatives must consider these elements and tailor their approaches accordingly. These findings significantly impact policymakers, managers, practitioners, trainers, and researchers in bridging the digital divide and creating a more inclusive digital society.

YouTube Scholar: Advancing Education with AI Assistance

In the contemporary landscape of online educa- tion, the proliferation of educational content on platforms like YouTube has opened new avenues for learners. However, the sheer volume of videos presents a challenge, requiring innovative solutions. This project takes a pioneering approach by developing a specialized AI assistant for educational YouTube lectures, lever- aging advanced language models such as Generative Pretrained Transformers (GPT). This project focuses on the development of an AI assistant tailored specifically for educational YouTube lectures and courses. The primary goal is to enhance the learning experience by leveraging the capabilities of GPT-based models to provide personalised and contextually relevant interactions for learners. By harnessing the power of natural language understanding, generation, and dialog systems, the AI assistant aims to assist learners in navigating, understanding, and engaging with educa- tional content more effectively. The ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between the abundance of online educational content and learners’ comprehension, thereby revolutionizing the educational landscape in the digital age. By providing a sophisticated AI-driven companion, this project aspires to empower learners, making the educational journey more accessible, engaging, and conducive to deeper learning experiences. Through the integration of cutting-edge technologies, it envisions a future where learners can unlock the full potential of online education with confidence and ease

Exploring the Link between Smartphone Use, Recorded Violence, and Social Sharing in 80 Case Studies in Italy

The increasing prevalence of violence recorded and shared through smartphones in today’s digital age has raised concerns about the underlying reasons driving such behavior. However, the lack of experimental studies and scientific evidence exploring the relationship between smartphone use and acts of violence has hindered our understanding of this phenomenon. To bridge this gap, the present study aimed to investigate the potential link between smartphone usage and the perpetration of violence, specifically focusing on incidents where violent acts were recorded and shared publicly. Given the challenges associated with directly observing such occurrences and the limitations of self-reporting due to social desirability bias, the study adopted a novel approach by analyzing major news outlets. Cross-referencing the most recent cases involving 80 episodes of violence, spanning from 2017 to 2023, accompanied by smartphone-recorded videos, the research aimed to gain insights into the role and outcomes of content dissemination. The findings revealed a concerning trend, indicating a rise in violence perpetrated with the aid of smartphones, where subsequent sharing on social networks and instant messaging platforms contributed to the viral spread of such content. This study provides valuable insights into the connection between smartphone usage, violence, and the sharing of violent content. The implications of these findings highlight the need for further research and the development of tools to detect and address violence-related issues in the digital space. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of responsible social media usage and collective efforts to curb the spread of violent content and foster a safer online environment.

A New Hybrid Approach for Image Security using Steganography and Encryption

In today's digital age, ensuring the security and confidentiality of image data is paramount, particularly with the proliferation of online communication and storage platforms. This project proposes a hybrid approach for enhancing image security by synergistically integrating encryption and steganography techniques. The combination of these two methods aims to fortify the protection of digital images against unauthorized access and tampering. Encryption ensures the confidentiality of image content by converting it into an unintelligible form using robust cryptographic algorithms. Concurrently, steganography conceals the encrypted data within the image itself, embedding it imperceptibly into the pixels or metadata. The synergy of encryption and steganography not only safeguards the integrity of image data but also adds an additional layer of concealment, making it arduous for adversaries to detect and decipher sensitive information. Through this project, the efficacy of the hybrid approach will be evaluated through experimentation and analysis, with the ultimate goal of providing a comprehensive solution for image security in various applications and contexts.

Exploring Titanium Dioxide Nanotubes: Pioneering Advanced Applications in Efficient Water Splitting and Sustainable Hydrogen Generation

This interdisciplinary study synthesizes findings from diverse fields including materials science, psychology, and environmental sustainability to explore the multifaceted challenges and opportunities associated with titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotubes and social media use. In the realm of materials science, TiO2 nanotubes have garnered attention for their potential applications in sustainable energy generation, particularly in water splitting for hydrogen production. Synthesis methods such as hydrothermal synthesis and nitrogen doping have been investigated to enhance the photocatalytic performance and stability of TiO2 nanotubes. Concurrently, the proliferation of social media platforms has transformed communication patterns and behaviors worldwide, shaping individuals' interactions, perceptions, and mental health outcomes. While social media offers opportunities for connectivity and self-expression, excessive use has been associated with adverse mental health outcomes, including symptoms of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Additionally, social media engagement has been linked to body image dissatisfaction, sleep disturbances, and academic performance, highlighting the complex interplays between online behaviors and psychological well-being. This study integrates insights from a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature, encompassing experimental research, observational studies, and survey-based investigations. The synthesis underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and targeted interventions to address the complex societal challenges posed by TiO2 nanotubes and social media use. Recommendations include further research to optimize synthesis methods, enhance regulatory oversight, and promote responsible digital citizenship. By fostering dialogue and collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, this study aims to inform evidence-based interventions and policy initiatives to promote sustainability, well-being, and equity in the digital age.

Unpacking the Nuances of Agenda-Setting in the Online Media Environment: An Hourly-Event Approach in the Context of Chinese Economic News

ABSTRACT The study of agenda-setting has faced considerable challenges in the digital age. Not only are the existing conceptualizations inadequate regarding the new features of online media outlets, but traditional analysis has also become insufficient to address the nuances of agenda-setting in the dynamic online media environment. In this study, we refined assumptions of reverse and intermedia agenda-setting theory, introduced the news events and hourly intervals approach, and considered economic news events in China as an appropriate theme. Our analysis showed that the few popular media played a gatekeeping role in the Chinese online media environment, and the average time interval in which agendas transferred across media and netizens was about 4 h. This study, thereby, advanced the understanding of agenda-setting dynamics in the digital society and showed directions for future agenda-setting research in terms of establishing more up-to-date conceptual assumptions and employing more nuanced methodological approaches.

Optimizing the Timeliness of Hybrid OFDMA-NOMA Sensor Networks with Stability Constraints

In this paper, we analyze the timeliness of a multi-user system in terms of the age of information (AoI) and the corresponding stability region in which the packet rates of users lead to finite queue lengths. Specifically, we consider a hybrid OFDMA-NOMA system where the users are partitioned into several groups. While users in each group share the same resource block using non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA), different groups access the fading channel using orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA). For this system, we consider three decoding schemes at the service terminals: interfering decoding, which treats signals from other users as interference; serial interference cancellation, which removes signals from other users once they have been decoded; and the enhanced SIC strategy, where the receiver attempts to decode for another user if decoding for a previous user fails. We present the average AoI for each of the three decoding schemes in closed form. Under the constraint of the stable region, we find the minimum AoI of each decoding scheme efficiently. The numerical results show that by optionally choosing the decoding scheme and transmission rate, the hybrid OFDMA-NOMA outperforms conventional OFDMA in terms of both system timeliness and stability.

Integrated Public Service Analysis of South Bengkulu Police Station

In the digital age, technological advancements have led to the widespread use of information systems and technology (IS/IT) to enhance public services. Implementing e-government has become crucial in supporting good governance, particularly in Government-to-Employee (G2E) and Government-to-Citizen (G2C). This study focuses on the South Bengkulu Police Station's Information System/Information Tech utilization to improve public service delivery. Through an analysis of the station's public service processes using SWOT and PEST analysis, this research aims to identify existing efforts in service development. It also aims to propose a concept for integrated public services. The findings of this analysis offer insights into optimizing police performance, benefiting the general public and internal stakeholders. However, certain limitations are acknowledged, including the lack of in-depth analysis of public service system performance and the creation of integrated service design concepts.

An Analysis and Countermeasures of News Inversion in the Post-truth Era

In the digital age, the swift proliferation of the Internet and new media has led to the frequent occurrence of “news inversion”, significantly undermining societal trust and the credibility of mainstream media. Such news, often pivoting on social hot topics, garners extensive public attention and epitomizes the challenges of the “post-truth” era, where traditional journalistic ethics are under siege. This paper aims to dissect the roots and repercussions of news inversion and propose effective strategies to mitigate its widespread influence.

Digital multimodal composing in L2 classrooms: A research agenda

Abstract Research on digital multimodal composing (DMC) in second language (L2) classrooms has proliferated considerably in recent years, to a large extent in response to the changing digital and multimodal communication landscape. This article offers a research agenda on DMC in L2 classrooms. We begin with a theoretically oriented overview of DMC scholarship. We then examine seven research themes for future research inquiry, from which we draw seven research tasks. The seven themes are: (1) the effectiveness of DMC for L2 writing development; (2) DMC task design; (3) L2 teacher education/training for implementing DMC; (4) feedback practice for DMC; (5) DMC assessment; (6) collaborative DMC as a translanguaging space; and (7) the deployment of DMC for critical digital literacies. Throughout the article, we refer to interdisciplinary scholarship and methods from multimodality, L2 writing, composition studies, new literacy studies, language teacher education, and computer-assisted language learning. The seven research tasks represent what we see as the essential next steps for understanding DMC, which is a young domain that has great potential to advance L2 language and literacy education in the digital age.

Hybrid warfare and the challenge to international law

This article explores the complex landscape of hybrid warfare, a multifaceted conflict strategy blending conventional military tactics with cyberattacks, information warfare, and economic coercion. It examines the challenges hybrid warfare poses to international law, the difficulties in establishing legal definitions, and the strategic responses by major powers including Russia, the United States, and China. The discussion extends to the adaptation of national and international strategies to address the gray zones of conflict that hybrid warfare exploits. Emphasizing the need for innovative legal frameworks and international cooperation, the article highlights hybrid warfare’s impact on global security dynamics and the evolving nature of warfare in the digital age.

Non-profit organisations in the digital age: A research agenda for supporting the development of a digital transformation strategy

Digital transformation (DT) research is moving to new frontiers of investigation, exploring the nexus between multi-scale and multi-level stimuli and effects. This article contributes to the literature examining how DT phenomena affect multiple and connected ecosystems among industries, governments, economies, and societies. Identifying DT outcomes in a given context includes considering the organisations’ unequal development and digital presence. Non-profit organisations (NPOs) are flagships of a unique organisational nature based on non-distributional constraints and the primacy of nonfinancial outcomes. Assuming DT as a process that could improve, transform, or change an entity’s property, this research examines which specific aspects link to DT outcomes in the context of NPOs, investigating preconditions, value-creation structures, and strategic development. The study performs a meta-synthesis by developing a taxonomy of 124 journal articles strictly discussing DT in NPOs to identify objects and characteristics describing the debate. Subsequently, it questions the validity of adopting insights resulting from other organisational forms to study and develop DT strategies for NPOs by comparing two frameworks. This study contributes to the current body of knowledge by suggesting a lens of analysis helpful in assessing the (DT) value-creation structures of NPOs, a research agenda outlining future directions, and recommendations intended to support NPOs’ policymakers and managers in undertaking DT projects.

Tides of change: employee training strategies for promoting risk-taking tourism in the North Sea

PurposeThis study critically examines the transformative impact of the “North Sea TikTok” phenomenon on the marine tourism sector, emphasizing the role of employee training in fostering resilience and adaptability within marine economics and integrated marine systems. It delves into how viral social media trends influence marine tourism destinations, particularly the North Sea, affecting local economies, marine resource management and tourism strategies. By analyzing this trend, the paper seeks to uncover how marine tourism destinations can effectively respond to the challenges and opportunities presented by digital media-driven tourism.Design/methodology/approachEmploying a multidisciplinary framework that merges insights from digital marketing, risk perception in tourism and human resource management, this paper provides a comprehensive qualitative analysis of the “North Sea TikTok” trend. Through a meticulous content analysis of viral videos and an examination of user engagement metrics, alongside a thorough review of contemporary literature in marine tourism and sustainability, the study unpacks the far-reaching implications of social media on marine tourism ecosystems.FindingsThe analysis reveals that the “North Sea TikTok” trend has markedly altered public perceptions of the North Sea, catalyzing a shift toward adventure and risk-taking tourism. This pivot promises economic rejuvenation for local tourism sectors and necessitates agile marine management strategies to accommodate the evolving demands. Implementing innovative employee training programs focusing on safety protocols, environmental conservation and digital engagement is central to managing these dynamics. The paper emphasizes integrating sustainable practices to ensure the equitable growth of marine tourism economies and environmental preservation.Originality/valueThis paper pioneers exploring the nexus between social media trends and their operational and strategic impacts on marine tourism management and economics. Synthesizing social media's viral dynamics with marine tourism development introduces groundbreaking insights into adapting marine tourism strategies in the digital age. It emphasizes the critical need for a skilled workforce capable of navigating the complexities of digital trend-driven tourism markets, proposing a novel model for employee training that aligns with the shifting paradigms of marine tourism engagement. This unique contribution advances academic discourse in marine economics and provides practical frameworks for stakeholders aiming to harness social media trends for sustainable tourism development.

RESEARCH BRIEF: Ghosting in the realm of research: The realities of conducting social science research in the digital age

RESEARCH BRIEF: Ghosting in the realm of research: The realities of conducting social science research in the digital age

Impact of Technological Advancements on Work and Employment Patterns

Purpose: This study sought to examine the impact of technological advancements on work and employment patterns. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the role of religion in shaping social attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights. The study provided comprehensive insights into the transformative effects of technology on the labor market. Through an analysis of existing literature and empirical studies, the research highlighted the emergence of job polarization, non-standard forms of employment, and the growing importance of education and skills development in the digital economy. The findings emphasized the need for proactive policy responses to address the challenges posed by technological change while harnessing its benefits for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Overall, the study contributed valuable knowledge to the understanding of how technological advancements shape work and employment patterns, guiding future efforts to navigate the complexities of the digital age. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Structural Transformation theory, Skill- Biased Technological Change theory and Institutional theory may be used to anchor future studies on technological advancements on work and employment patterns. The study provided recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy. It called for further research to explore the mechanisms underlying the relationship between technology and employment. Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of investing in education and skills development to prepare the workforce for the challenges of the digital economy. From a policy perspective, proactive measures were recommended to promote inclusive and sustainable employment growth, including strategies to support workers through transitions and ensure equitable distribution of benefits. Collaboration between stakeholders and ongoing monitoring and evaluation of policy interventions were also highlighted as crucial for addressing the socio-economic implications of technological change.

Amitav Ghosh's Gun Island: Digital Age Man as Technology Possessed Impersonal Systems

One of the unique cultural phenomena of the twenty-first century is the rising use of digital and computational technology and devices, where space for the imaginative and the emotional necessitates, quite naturally, a new reconfiguration. This reconfiguration is evident in the way people interact with each other and the world around them. The internet has created a global community where people can connect and communicate with each other instantly, regardless of distance or time zones. Social media platforms have become a ubiquitous part of modern life, allowing individuals to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with others on a massive scale. As we continue to embrace these new technologies, they continue to shape culture in ways that one cannot yet imagine. Amitav Ghosh’s Gun Island unfolds on a global scale and mirrors global issues that have transformed the life of both human and non-human world. This study explores the impact of technology and social media in the twenty first century human world at large in the novel Gun Island written by Amitav Ghosh

ANALIZA ODNOSA INDEKSA DIGITALNIH VEŠTINA I RAZVOJA EKONOMIJE

The transition from the industrial age to the age of knowledge or information age implies the adoption of new knowledge and skills that become the main resource of business. The consequence of constant technological innovations is the need for new knowledge and skills, such as digital literacy and digital skills, which have become one of the most important resources for the development of industry, and therefore the economy. The subject of research in this paper is the analysis of the DSI index ( Digital Skill Index ) for the years 2021 and 2023 and the DQL index ( Digital Quality of Life Index ) for a period of five years, with the aim of comparing the data and pointing out the importance of having digital skills and the use of social networks have on the development of the economy. Quantitative research method was used in the research and was implemented dynamic analysis of DSI and DQL indices for Serbia and comparative analysis with other countries in a given time period. The results of the DSI index research for 2021 and 2023 for 36 European countries show that the leading positions were taken by the countries of Northern Europe, the Netherlands, Ireland, Spain and Luxembourg, while Serbia took the 30th position. Certain countries that occupied the central positions in the table in 2019, in 2023 have regressed, that is, progressed, but not to a significant level. On the other hand, the analysis of the DQL index for 50 countries of the world in the period from 2019 to 2023 shows that European countries occupied more than 50 percent among the best-ranked countries in the entire time period, while Serbia was not analyzed in 2019, but in in the next four analyzed years, it reached the top 50 ranked countries in the world. Also, the paper shows the importance of the development of digital skills and the use of social networks in the growth and development of the economy.

Metaverse decline, growth in online videos increases: implications to libraries

Purpose This paper aims to explore the decline of the metaverse and the concurrent growth of online videos, examining their implications for libraries. It analyzes factors contributing to the metaverse decline, such as technical issues and privacy concerns, and explores the emergence and popularity of online video platforms. Design/methodology/approach This study applied the interpretive content/document analysis of literature harvested from different databases of Scopus, Web of Science and Directory of Open Access Journals. Given the shift in digital consumption patterns and their impact on libraries, the paper systematically reviews the literature to elucidate the changing landscape of digital engagement and its implications for library services and outreach efforts. Findings The paper identifies technical issues, privacy concerns and a lack of interoperability as key factors contributing to the decline of the metaverse. Conversely, the growth of online videos is driven by the emergence of platforms, increasing accessibility to high-speed internet and a diversification of content offerings. These trends reshape user preferences and behaviors, presenting both challenges and opportunities for libraries. Originality/value The decline of the metaverse and the rise of online videos underscore the importance of adaptation and innovation for libraries. To remain relevant in the digital age, libraries must transform their services to meet the demand for on-demand content and multimedia resources. The findings highlight the need for libraries to invest in digital literacy and media literacy programs, embrace emerging technologies and forge strategic partnerships with online video platforms. By adapting to changing trends and user preferences, libraries will continue to fulfill their mission of providing access to information and knowledge in the digital age.

Perkembangan Teologi Di Era Moderenisme Dan Dampak Bagi Iman Kristen Masa Kini

In the era of information that continues to develop, someone can be influenced by hoax information that has no basis. Social media makes it easy to access information and establish communication (Rohmadi, 2016). A crucial problem that is currently troubling in the digital era is the increasing prevalence of hoax information. Kasperek & Messersmith (2015) stated that hoax information spreads quickly. Hoaxes can mislead and influence public perception so that the information is considered the truth. but also in the understanding that Jesus is not seen as God (Allah) because He had human form and also carried out activities like an ordinary human being (Skepticism) because a wrong understanding of the truth of God's word has fatal consequences in the growth of faith of believers today, including in believing in everything text of God's word. For researchers, it is very important to review the movement and way of thinking of Modernism and a certain picture of the world that was originally inspired by Descartes, which emphasized the concept of "doubt" so that humans must use their minds to answer their doubts. The method used in this research is a qualitative research method using the method of tracing history and its development. Where these developments start from the birth of modernism, the impact and handling of it in today's Christian faith. So that today's Christians will not be influenced by the wrong theological understanding in the era of modernism. The Bible remains the main standard of faith in Christianity.