Innovative Technological Advances Research Articles

Exploring fluoropolymers for fabrication of femtoliter chamber arrays used in digital bioanalysis

The global supply of fluoropolymers and fluorinated solvents is decreasing due to environmental concerns regarding polyfluoroalkyl substances. CYTOP has been used for decades primarily as a component of a femtoliter chamber array for digital bioanalysis; however, its supply has recently become scarce, increasing the urgency of fabricating a femtoliter chamber array using alternative materials. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of fabricating a femtoliter chamber array using four types of fluoropolymers in stable supply as candidate substitutes and verified their applicability for digital bioanalysis. Among these candidates, Fluorine Sealant emerged as a viable option for fabricating femtoliter chamber arrays using a conventional photolithography process. To validate its efficacy, we performed various digital bioanalysis using FP-A-based chamber arrays with model enzymes such as CRISPR–Cas, horseradish peroxidase, and β-galactosidase. The results demonstrated the similar performance to that of CYTOP, highlighting the broader utility of FP-A in digital bioanalysis. Our findings underscore the potential of FP-A to enhance the versatility of digital bioanalysis and foster the ongoing advancement of innovative diagnostic technologies.

A Service Blueprint Approach in Ship Building Activity Mapping

In the evolving landscape of shipbuilding, the confluence of innovative methodologies and advanced technologies is reshaping paradigms in ship design and production. The industry's quest for multidisciplinary methods that elaborate representing diverse ship building activities and boost efficiency in managing these activities has unveiled the potential of the service blueprint, a tool used in service design, which addresses design of activities and determining who does what activities when in collaboration with whom. Our proposition centres on the structured activity mapping representation, a novel activity map that utilizes service blueprint with detailed description of activities with rich and structured representation of context. The framework offers a comprehensive perspective, illuminating intricate processes such as concept design, detailed design and production stages as well as service and operation stages. This mapping would ensure alignment of each activity with overarching project objectives, encapsulating values, interactions, collaborations. This paper illustrates the approach of service blueprint in representing ship building activities with discussion on improvement potential of current activity mapping through the service blueprint approach as being conducted in the SEUS EU Horizon project.

AiWOM: Artificial Intelligence Word-of-Mouth. Conceptualizing Consumer-to-AI Communication

The advent of innovative technologies with installed artificial intelligence (AI) has raised the need to understand evolutive consumers’ behaviours. The dyadic communicative experience between consumers and technological artifacts with programmed social humanoid features shed the light on the emergence of an adaptative form of word-of-mouth (WOM) and that we label as “AI word-of-mouth” (aiWOM). We argue that there is a need for defining and investigating aiWOM as an emerging phenomenon which derive but diverge from WOM. Our conceptualization suggests that the communication interaction between consumers and AI technologies produce new consumers’ behaviors and psychological reactions.

Informational Modeling of Cities: Method and Challenges for Institutional Implementation

ABSTRACT Although cities are increasingly permeated by information and communication technologies (ICTs), these urban centers still face theoretical and practical obstacles regarding the application of 3D technologies as a tool for urban planning and management. This study aims to ontologically structure an informational model as an urban management tool and assess the perceived challenges for implementing this model in the municipal public management of Curitiba, Brazil. The study was carried out through the collective subject discourse, the interviews’ thematic saturation, and Delphi techniques. The results indicate that the technical capacity, technological infrastructure, and financial resources for the development of a city information modeling (CIM) exist, although its activation for such development depends on a more significant political and managerial entrepreneurship in the decision-making in arrangements of multilevel governance, and, consequently, there is a need to develop public policies for staff training to stimulate and promote advanced technological innovations for urban management and planning. Implementing a CIM in large cities seems to face more management and planning problems due to the lack of institutional ontologies than technological, infrastructural, or knowledge limitations.

Scenario analysis on CO2 emission reductions in hinterland transport of Japan through intermodal logistics network simulation

Because transport in the port hinterlands heavily depends on roads with negative externalities, much social interest has been in modal shifts (MSs) to rail and shipping with lower environmental impact. Currently, leading industry sectors to ambitiously embrace technological innovations to decarbonize—consequently, in line with these changes, the significance of MSs should change; however, no previous studies have comprehensively presented the overall CO2 emissions and transport mode shares for future regional cargo transport. This paper presents a scenario analysis of CO2 emission reductions in the Japanese domestic hinterland of international maritime container transport based on future scenarios of technological innovation and change in shipper behavior. The simulation results using the global logistics intermodal network simulation model showed that up to 87% CO2 reduction is possible, and the primary driver for this is technological innovation. Moreover, the significance of MSs fluctuates depending on the advancement of technological innovation, suggesting that MSs hold a degree of import as a decarbonization measure during the transitional phase toward carbon neutrality (CN) as technological innovation advances. The results of this study, which fluctuated considerably by scenario and timing, have policy implications with respect to the path to be followed toward CN, including whether to promote MSs.

Autonomous Surface Water Cleaning Robots

Autonomous Surface Water Cleaning Robots

Performance evaluation of dual microslide assay pairs on vitros XT 7600: An advanced technological innovation in optimizing lab efficiency

Performance evaluation of dual microslide assay pairs on vitros XT 7600: An advanced technological innovation in optimizing lab efficiency

Multi‐Parametric Decision System for Analytical Performance Assessment of Electrochemical (Bio)Sensors

AbstractMiniaturized three‐electrode electrochemical sensors (MES) are widely used in the advancement of innovative technologies for remote sensing applications. MESs consist of conductive electrodes that are applied onto an inert solid substrate using various techniques, such as photolithography, electroplating, and screen printing. Typical MES systems comprise working (WE) and counter (CE) electrodes based on gold (Au), paired with a reference electrode (RE) based on silver (Ag). This configuration is commonly selected due to Au's high conductivity, low resistance, and compatibility with robust organothiol chemistries, especially for the WE. Moreover, Ag is often preferred for REs owing to its low toxicity, stability, and high conductivity. Nevertheless, in uncontrolled environments outside of cleanrooms, both Au and Ag surfaces are prone to atmospheric contamination, resulting in significant sensor variability and compromised analytical performance. Therefore, it is crucial to integrate a pre‐processing stage into the sensor manufacturing process to guarantee the quality and cleanliness of MES electrode surfaces for sensor functionalization and precise electrochemical measurements. Considering the potential negative effects of methods tailored for a specific electrode material on another material, this study extensively investigates 18 different treatment methods for MESs incorporating Au CEs and WEs, along with Ag REs. Employing a multi‐parametric analysis, this study aims to identify the most effective treatment for a variety of electrode materials, thereby improving analytical accuracy and reproducibility for subsequent MES (bio)sensor applications.

A Cobot in the Vineyard: Computer Vision for Smart Chemicals Spraying

Precision agriculture (PA) is a management concept that makes use of digital techniques to monitor and optimise agricultural production processes and represents a field of growing economic and social importance. Within this area of knowledge, there is a topic not yet fully explored: outlining a road map towards the definition of an affordable cobot solution (i.e., a low-cost robot able to safely coexist with humans) able to perform automatic chemical treatments. The present study narrows its scope to viticulture technologies, and targets small/medium-sized winemakers and producers, for whom innovative technological advancements in the production chain are often precluded by financial factors. The aim is to detail the realization of such an integrated solution and to discuss the promising results achieved. The results of this study are: (i) The definition of a methodology for integrating a cobot in the process of grape chemicals spraying under the constraints of a low-cost apparatus; (ii) the realization of a proof-of-concept of such a cobotic system; (iii) the experimental analysis of the visual apparatus of this system in an indoor and outdoor controlled environment as well as in the field.

Exploring the synergy of nanomaterials and microbial cell factories during biohydrogen and biobutanol production from different carbon sources

The escalating environmental concerns and burgeoning energy crises, coupled with the desire to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 to avert potential climate change disaster, highlight the urgent need for sustainable production methods, and innovative technological advancements. Microbial fermentation plays a pivotal role in the pursuit of sustainable production of biofuels and chemicals with properties similar to those of fossil-derived fuels and chemicals. Biofuels, such as biohydrogen and biobutanol derived from renewable sources, offer a promising, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for mitigating long-term carbon footprint. Currently, there is a surge of interest in biohydrogen (bioH2) and biobutanol production through dark fermentation using diverse biomass feedstocks, due to its capacity to simultaneously generate gas and liquid fuels from renewable nonfood resources. Furthermore, the incorporation of nanoparticles in fermentation process has demonstrated considerable potential in enhancing bioH2 yields. Similarly, biobutanol emerges as an eco-friendly, less polluting, and potentially commercially viable substitute for conventional gasoline. This review emphasizes the diverse spectrum of nanoparticle applications in biomanufacturing, with a particular focus on their role in enhancing microbial activities to boost bioH2 and biobutanol yields. Additionally, the review highlights potential underlying mechanisms of nano-catalyzed fermentation pathways, future trends, and the prospects of nano-catalysts in advancing biofuel technology.

Harnessing Ash for Sustainable CO2 Absorption: Current Strategies and Future Prospects.

This review explores the potential of using different types of ash, namely fly ash, biomass ash, and coal ash etc., as mediums for CO2 capture and sequestration. The diverse origins of these ash types-municipal waste, organic biomass, and coal combustion-impart unique physicochemical properties that influence their suitability and efficiency in CO2 absorption. This review first discusses the environmental and economic implications of using ash wastes, emphasizing the reduction in landfill usage and the transformation of waste into value-added products. Then the chemical/physical treatments of ash wastes and their inherent capabilities in binding or reacting with CO2 are introduced, along with current methodologies utilize these ashes for CO2 sequestration, including mineral carbonation and direct air capture techniques. The application of using ash wastes for CO2 capture are highlighted, followed by the discussion regarding challenges associated with ash-based CO2 absorption approach. Finally, the article projects into the future, proposing innovative approaches and technological advancements needed to enhance the efficacy of ash in combating the increasing CO2 levels. By providing a comprehensive analysis of current strategies and envisioning future prospects, this review aims to contribute to the field of sustainable CO2 absorption and environmental management.

Dual Mobility Hip Arthroplasty: Innovative Technological Advances

Dual Mobility Hip Arthroplasty: Innovative Technological Advances

The Metaverse is the future research space for jurisprudence

The article is devoted to the study of the concept of the Metaverse as a future research space for jurisprudence. It has been established that the Metaverse is known as a special virtual space created by computer technologies, where users can interact with each other, between various digital objects and the digital environment thanks to the created avatars – virtual digital images. It has been determined that the Metaverse can be called a copy of the real world, but in a virtual space that combines modern technologies, virtual and augmented reality, three-dimensional graphics, artificial intelligence, social networks, as well as other advanced innovative technologies. The focus is on the fact that the hypothetical transfer of real life to the virtual world raises a large number of legal issues and creates a huge field for scientific research, in particular, in jurisprudence. It was found that legal problems that may arise in the future in the Metaverse should be solved by lawyers together with philosophers, technologists, experts, and scientists from other fields of science based on developed uniform standards and norms. The opinion of scientists regarding the creation of a single international legal framework for the regulation of the Metaverse due to the absence of borders in the Metaverse and non-belonging to a specific state is supported. It is stated that the process of developing a unified international legal framework for the regulation of the Metaverse is a very large, complex, and long-lasting work that requires taking into account the cultural, national, legal, and moral differences of different countries. Such a difficult task requires the approval and consent of states, international organizations, and societies. However, given the potential for active development of the Metaverse and its impact on society, these efforts can contribute to its effective and consistent regulation.

Adaptive Architecture and Infection Prevention in Hospitals

In healthcare facility design, especially in hospitals, infection control is paramount due to the vulnerability of patients to nosocomial or healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Despite advancements in medical practices and infection control measures, HAIs remain a significant challenge to patient safety and public health, particularly within hospital settings. Integrating adaptive architecture principles into hospital design and infrastructure presents a promising approach to addressing this issue. This paper examines the intersection of adaptive architecture and infection prevention in hospitals, with a focus on designing and constructing healthcare facilities to effectively curb the spread of infections. By incorporating adaptive architecture, hospitals can create environments that are responsive to the dynamic needs of patients, staff, and infection control protocols. Design elements such as flexible room layouts, easily adaptable ventilation systems, and antimicrobial surfaces can help minimize the risk of HAIs by reducing pathogen transmission and promoting cleanliness. Additionally, strategic placement of hand hygiene stations, isolation rooms, and patient flow pathways can optimize infection control practices and enhance patient safety. Strategically locating hand hygiene stations, isolation rooms, and patient flow pathways optimizes infection control practices and improves patient safety. By combining innovative design strategies and advanced technology, hospitals can better combat HAIs, fostering safer environments for patients and healthcare staff. This paper investigates how the collaboration of adaptive architecture and infection prevention can yield more robust and efficient healthcare facilities in the fight against HAIs. Keywords - HAIs, Adaptive Architecture, Infection, adaptable ventilation, flexible layouts, antimicrobial surfaces.

The Impact of Unmanned Store Characteristics on Stickiness Intention through Consumer Value

Despite the growth of unmanned stores alongside innovative technological advancements, research on consumer value and purchase intentions regarding unmanned stores remains relatively scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of unmanned store characteristics on stickiness intentions based on consumer value. An online survey was conducted from October 10th to October 17th, 2023, targeting 350 individuals who had made purchases at unmanned stores, and a total of 319 responses were used for analysis. The research findings indicate that the characteristics of unmanned stores responsiveness, tangibility, and reliability positively influence consumers' experiential value, subsequently increasing stickiness intentions. Moreover, Tangibility positively affected economic value, while reliability had a positive impact on psychological value. Consumer value was found to significantly impact stickiness intentions. Confirming the influence of each unmanned store characteristic through various consumer values on stickiness intentions, this study suggests that strategic planning to enhance consumer stickiness intentions is feasible. It also underscores the necessity of store operational strategies that consider the significance of consumer value.

The Role of Smart City in Achieving Sustainable Development: Google Trends Analysis and Exponential Time Series Smoothing Models

The concept of sustainable smart urban development is an important element of the modern discourse on the future development of cities, regions, and the world as a whole, a key component of a strategy aimed at introducing innovations, improving the life quality of citizens, ensuring inclusiveness and sustainability of local development. It integrates the concept of Smart City as the application of advanced innovative technologies to solve urban problems and the concept of Sustainable Development as a balancing of socio-economic and environmental interests to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. While discussing the problems and prospects introducing any social models or strategies, it is important to understand the level of public interest in this issue, the level of citizens’ awareness, the readiness to receive new information, and the readiness for change. The article is focused on the analysis of retrospective dynamics (from 01.01.2010 to 01.12.2023) and economic and mathematical modelling of forecast trends in changing public interest in the concepts of “Smart City” and “Sustainable Development” (identified using the Google Trends tool). The analysis was carried out for the world as a whole and for Ukraine specifically. The study identifies and describes the evolution of changes in public interest in these topics, identifies the time points of a sharp surge in interest, and conducts a comparative analysis in the content (trends for these two search queries) and spatial context (trends in Ukraine compared to global trends). The countries of the world and regions of Ukraine where user interest in the relevant topics dominates are ranked, and the countries of the world and regions of Ukraine where user interest in the relevant topics dominates are ranked, the TOP-10 are identified. The factors whose influence is relevant to the public interest dynamics are identified (consumer trends, media activity, dynamics of the introduction of relevant concepts, cultural, linguistic, and historical contexts, the general level of education, digital inclusion and consciousness of the population of different countries, etc.) Using the exponential smoothing method, models were built to predict the dynamics of time series – the number of queries from Ukrainian Internet users regarding the concepts of “Smart City” and “Sustainable Development”. Additive forecasting models, which differ in the trend component, are obtained.

EXPLORING FOREIGN EXPERIENCES IN TEACHING BOTANY: INSIGHTS AND INNOVATIONS

Botany, the study of plants, holds paramount importance in understanding the fundamental processes of life on Earth. Teaching botany, however, presents various challenges due to its multidisciplinary nature and the diverse learning styles of students. Thisarticle reviews foreign experiences in teaching botany, focusing on innovative approaches, pedagogical strategies, and technological advancements employed to enhance student engagement and comprehension. Insights from diverse educational settings shed light on effective methodologies and provide valuable lessons for educators worldwide.

Advancements in Machine Learning Technologies for Detecting and Addressing Harmful Behaviours in Online Platforms

Abstract: Social engineering attacks, which take use of psychological manipulation rather than technical flaws, represent a serious threat to people, organizations, and society at large. This research paper explores the field of social engineering detection and provides a thorough analysis of current approaches, their efficacy, and the difficulties encountered in spotting and countering these misleading techniques. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the use of machine learning and deep learning technologies to detect and address harmful behaviours such as hate speech, cyberbullying, phishing, and spam on social media and communication platforms. It covers a range of studies and methods, including the application of various algorithms such as Enigma Cipher, Rail Fence Cipher, Convolutional Neural Networks, BiLSTM, decision trees, Logistic Regression, SVM, Naive Bayes, and others. The document highlights ongoing endeavours to tackle the issues posed by harmful activities online through innovative technological advancements, showcasing the continuous evolution in this dynamic field.

An analysis of conventional and modern packaging approaches for cut flowers: a review article.

Fresh-cut flowers are considered to be one of the most delicate and challenging commercial crops. It is important to take into consideration how to minimize loss during storage and transportation when preserving cut flowers. Many impinging (bad effect) forces can interact to shorten the flowers' vase life. In the flower industry, effective methods need to be developed to extend freshly cut flowers' life. Fresh-cut flowers' vase life can be shortened by a variety of interlocking causes. The flower industry must develop new techniques to extend the flowers' vase lifespan. This review provides comprehensive, up-to-date information on classical, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP), and controlled atmosphere packaging (CAP) displays. According to this review, a promising packaging technique for fresh flowers can be achieved through smart packaging. A smart package is one that incorporates new technology to increase its functionality. This combines active packaging, nanotechnology, and intelligence. This technology makes it easier to keep an eye on the environmental variables that exist around the packaged flowers to enhance their quality. This article offers a comprehensive overview of creative flower-saving packaging ideas that reduce flower losses and assist growers in handling more effectively their flower inventory. To guarantee the quality of flowers throughout the marketing chain, innovative packaging techniques and advanced packaging technologies should be adopted to understand various package performances. This will provide the consumer with cut flowers of standard quality. Furthermore, sustainable packaging is achieved with circular packaging. We can significantly reduce packaging waste's environmental impact by designing reused or recyclable packaging.

Exploring Electric Vehicle Battery Lifespan: Implications and Strategies for Sustainable Mobility

The global transition towards electric vehicles (EVs) represents a profound evolution in consumer behavior, driven by a growing awareness of environmental sustainability and the imperative to reduce carbon emissions. The lifespan of EV batteries is central to the success and widespread adoption of EVs. This critical factor influences not only EVs' operational efficiency and reliability but also the automotive industry's overall sustainability. This research paper delves deeply into the intricate web of factors that impact EV battery lifespan, ranging from the fundamental principles of battery chemistry to the practical considerations of user behavior and maintenance practices. By dissecting these complexities, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying battery degradation and longevity. Moreover, we explore manufacturers' innovative strategies and technological advancements to optimize battery performance, enhance lifespan, and mitigate environmental impact. Through this exploration, we seek to offer valuable insights and practical recommendations for industry stakeholders, policymakers, and consumers to accelerate the transition toward a more sustainable transportation ecosystem. By empowering stakeholders with knowledge and tools to maximize the potential of EVs, we can pave the way for a future characterized by cleaner air, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and greater energy independence.