Innovative Technologies Research Articles

What is new in imaging to assist in the diagnosis of giant cell arteritis and Takayasu's arteritis since the EULAR and ACR/VF recommendations?

Over the past decades, fundamental insights have been gained to establish the pivotal role of imaging in the diagnosis of large-vessel vasculitis, including giant cell arteritis (GCA) and Takayasu's arteritis (TAK). A deeper comprehension of imaging modalities has prompted earlier diagnosis leading to expedited treatment for better prognosis. The European Alliance of Associations in Rheumatology (EULAR) recommended in 2023 that ultrasound should be the initial imaging test in suspected GCA, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) remains the first-line imaging modality in suspected TAK. We summarize the recent advances in diagnostic imaging in large vessel vasculitis, highlighting use of combination imaging modalities, and discuss progress in newer imaging techniques such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound, shear wave elastography, ocular ultrasound, ultrasound biomicroscopy, integration of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with MRI, novel tracer in PET, black blood MRI, orbital MRI, and implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) to existing imaging modalities. Our aim is to offer a perspective on ongoing advancements in imaging for the diagnosis of GCA and TAK, particularly innovative technology, which could potentially boost diagnostic precision.

Luxury fashion brands in metaverse retailing – a review of literature and practice

Purpose The purposes of this study are to identify the ways that luxury fashion brands can leverage in metaverse retailing, and give insights to practitioners in the fashion industry who are planning to launch metaverse retailing. Design/methodology/approach To offer a balanced view of available evidence, this study adopted a literature review approach and attempted to collect all existing academic journal articles on the issues related to metaverse retailing and luxury fashion brands. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in electronic databases Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, Pro Quest and Science Direct from January 2023 to April 2024. Based on the results of the research in literature, real-life examples of luxury fashion brands were used to explain the ways that luxury fashion brands in the metaverse retailing can be put into practice. Findings The findings have revealed that there are many ways that luxury fashion brands can leverage in the metaverse retailing. The fusion of metaverse-related technologies provides brands with a wide platform of choices that can create immersive, personalized marketing experiences for customers. Four roles of metaverse are identified: (1) enhance of immersive experience; (2) provide big data interface to smart decision-making; (3) form high-fidelity simulated space; and (4) maintenance economic system and making of identification. To further enhance the four roles of metaverse, four types of technologies and 15 components for metaverse can be adopted by luxury fashion brands. Research limitations/implications While this paper provides a literature review and real-life examples of luxury fashion brands in the metaverse retailing to explain the findings, further research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of current efforts in the development of luxury fashion brands in the metaverse retailing through collecting both quantitative and qualitative data. Also, future studies may attempt to explore the challenges of investigating consumers in response to luxury fashion brands in the metaverse retailing. Practical implications The metaverse is turning imagination into reality through the integration of multiple technologies and is gaining momentum in tech. With technology leading the way, business leaders and brands must not only rethink retail but also bring immersive shopping experiences into the future. Metaverse has immense potential to transform the retail industry, thus the leading global and local firms must embrace innovation and new technologies, and prioritize “metaverse transformation” for their business. Based on the results of this study, some emerging practices pertaining to metaverse retailing are provided. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it would seem that this is the first work that conducts a literature review of the relevant academic journal articles addressed to the practitioners or managerial audiences in the area of luxury fashion industry who are concerned about the development of metaverse retailing. This paper identifies the ways that luxury fashion brands can leverage in the metaverse retailing and gives insights to practitioners in the luxury fashion industry who are planning to launch metaverse retailing.

Learning Innovations in Coastal Areas Through Augmented Reality and Gamification

This research investigates the development of an augmented reality (AR) application with gamification elements to enhance natural science learning in coastal areas. Validation by media and content experts, along with trials conducted among students, showed high feasibility and strong appeal of the application. Functionality tests, including marker detection range, demonstrated the application's capability to operate effectively in diverse coastal environments. The study highlights the successful integration of AR and gamification as a tool to improve engagement and understanding of natural science concepts in under-resourced coastal schools. This application holds great potential for enhancing the quality of education in coastal areas by offering an interactive and immersive learning experience. Further research is recommended to refine the application and assess its long-term impact on student comprehension and educational outcomes in various coastal communities. This study represents a significant step forward in using innovative AR technology to support learning in coastal regions.

NoSQL Technologies in Big Data Ecosystems: a Comprehensive Review of Architectural Paradigms and Performance Metrics

The exponential growth of data in volume, velocity, and variety has challenged traditional relational database management systems, leading to the emergence and widespread adoption of NoSQL and other innovative database technologies. This article provides a comprehensive review of NoSQL databases and their role in modern Big Data infrastructure stacks. Through a systematic analysis of current literature and industry case studies, we explore the architectural paradigms, performance metrics, and use cases of various NoSQL database types, including document-based, key-value, column-family, and graph databases. Our findings indicate that NoSQL solutions offer significant advantages in scalability, flexibility, and real-time processing capabilities, particularly for unstructured and semi-structured data. However, challenges persist in areas such as data consistency, security, and interoperability with existing systems. We also examine emerging trends, including NewSQL, time-series databases, and the integration of artificial intelligence in database management. This article contributes to the understanding of how organizations can leverage NoSQL technologies to optimize their Big Data infrastructure, highlighting both the opportunities and considerations for implementation. Our conclusions underscore the transformative impact of NoSQL on data management practices and provide directions for future research in this rapidly evolving field.

Cluster Dimensions of the Space of a New Residential District of Ukrainian ‘Post-Socialist’ City

The article presents research material devoted to new dimensions of the spatial organization of residential areas of Ukrainian “post-socialist” city. He is currently faced with the challenges of military actions aimed at destroying the urban environment of Ukrainian cities. Residential areas of the micro-district type of the “post-socialist” city are mostly built on the basis of the postulates of functionalism. In the theory and practice of urban planning, they did not foresee the vulnerability of objects of necessary and social infrastructure. The criteria of centrality, as focus of concentration of functions of the spatial organization of the city, are currently being transformed into criteria of dispersion. Functional zoning acquires the multiplicative nature of multidimensional functional zoning. Fractal urbanism methodology assumes local freedom and global cohesion of individual urban planning elements. New exponential organizational structures with innovative digital technologies create “breakthrough” models of development. One of which is the urban planning cluster. The new residential area “Levada-2” in the city of Poltava (Ukraine) is presented, which demonstrates the latest approaches in the cluster organization of living space.

Experimental and simulation study of calcium carbonate non-uniform distribution characteristics of bio-cemented sand

The innovative technology of microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP) soil modification is widely used in soil reinforcement, soil remediation, environmental remediation and other fields, and has gradually become a hot research direction. Recent research is more focused on the overall physical and mechanical characteristics of the uniform reinforced specimen. There is limited research on the distribution characteristics of calcium carbonate along the seepage path during the reinforcement process. However, the distribution characteristics of calcium carbonate play a significant role in the physical and mechanical characteristics of the solid, especially in the large-scale MICP reinforcement process. In this study, based on the microbial mineralization reaction tests of different concentrations of cement solution at the laboratory sample scale, the calcium carbonate distribution on the surface of the sample at the microscale SEM observation and the CT scanning reconstruction of the micro pore structure characteristics of the microbial reinforced soil, we discussed the characteristics of the non-uniform reduction of calcium carbonate distribution and porosity in the process of microbial consolidation. Based on the Kozeny-Carman equation, the conceptual model of effective porosity was introduced, and the time relationship between porosity and calcium carbonate precipitation was considered to establish a bio-chemical-seepage multi-physics field coupling model. The precipitation of calcium carbonate in the axial direction of the model sample exhibits an uneven feature of more at the top and less at the bottom, and the distribution characteristics of porosity also show an uneven feature of more at the top and less at the bottom.

ORGANIZATIONAL AND FINANCIAL ASPECTS OF DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT OF DIGITAL CONTENT

In today's crisis conditions caused by military, financial, economic, social, environmental political upheavals and threats, the role of innovative technologies in trade is growing significantly. First of all, this applies to digital distribution in the book trade. Compared to traditional forms of trade, it does not require extensive infrastructure, large production facilities, or numerous staff. This helps to reduce transaction costs, respond more quickly to changing market conditions and simplify access to international trading platforms. However, the further development of digital distribution requires constant monitoring and analysis of global trends, and implementation of the best domestic and foreign practices to ensure efficient management of trading operations.The purpose of the study is to formulate the main financial and organizational measures to improve the management of digital distribution and increase its efficiency. To achieve this goal, the following tasks were solved: based on scientific publications and statistical data, the author monitored the trends in the development of digital distribution and the e-book market in Ukraine and in the world; analyzed the rank and level of visits to the websites of leading online e-book and audiobook stores in Ukraine; identified external and internal factors that affect the efficiency of digital distribution, in particular, e-books and audiobooks in the current conditions of military aggression and other risks; developed a model for generating revenue for a digital distribution platform.Financial, economic and organizational measures to improve the company's distribution management of digital content are proposed. These include areas of customer incentives and rewards, improved communication with digital goods manufacturers, priority funding for projects to improve the platform interface and mobile application, improved accounting, reporting, operational and strategic planning, and the introduction of artificial intelligence.

Integrated Application of Innovative Technologies for Oil Spill Remediation in Gran Tarajal Harbor: A Scientific Approach

This study examines recovery efforts at Gran Tarajal Harbor following a significant oil spill, employing a combination of innovative technologies tailored to enhance oil spill remediation. Cleanup operations incorporated advanced absorbent sponges with high reusability, absorbent granulates for targeted hydrocarbon capture, bioremediation techniques using allochthonous microorganisms to accelerate natural degradation processes, and the integration of newly designed oil containment barriers coupled with sponges. These technologies were instrumental in effectively mitigating environmental damage, as evidenced by a reduction in hydrocarbon concentrations in sediments from nearly 60,000 mg/kg to under 1600 mg/kg within seven months. Notably, advanced absorbent sponges demonstrated superior capacity for repeated use, optimizing the cleanup process and contributing to the sustainability of the response efforts. The most important finding of this research is the demonstrated efficacy of integrated approach in not only reducing hydrocarbon contamination but also in promoting ecological recovery. Heavy metal analyses revealed that lead and copper concentrations were primarily associated with routine port activities, while mercury levels, attributed to the spill, decreased significantly over time. Tissue analysis of local organisms showed minimal contamination, and assessments of biological communities indicated signs of ecological recovery. This work highlights the necessity of introduce new disruptive technologies in contingency plans.

ENHANCING EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY: GREEN ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR WATER SUPPLY COMPANIES

Water supply enterprises significantly impact local communities by providing essential services. These companies face high electricity costs for water extraction, purification, and transportation, affecting efficiency and reliability. Therefore, implementing innovative technologies to enhance sustainability in the water supply sector is crucial. This article explores the opportunities and strategies for renewable energy transition at water supply companies. Using investment, sensitivity, and strategic analyses, as well as a case study approach, the research examines technologies, conceptual frameworks, mechanisms, and approaches to integrate green power into water supply operations, addressing high energy costs and promoting sustainability. The article identifies solar, wind, hydroelectric, biomass, and geothermal energy technologies as the most prominent renewable power solutions for water supply enterprises. The developed conceptual framework for implementing these technologies includes needs assessment and goal setting; resource assessment and technology selection; system design and integration; financing and investment; regulatory compliance and permitting; stakeholder engagement and capacity building; and monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement. The mechanisms and approaches to integrate green energy solutions within the developed framework can involve on-site renewable energy generation, power purchase agreements, energy storage and microgrid systems, energy efficiency and demand management, and collaborative and community-based models. As a case study, the article examines a 120-kW solar power plant project for a water supply enterprise, demonstrating profitability with a net present value of 60,370 USD and an internal rate of return exceeding 21%. The project's payback period is estimated at 8.38 years, acceptable within industry standards. Sensitivity analysis indicates the project's financial resilience. Increasing electricity prices will boost profitability, justifying the solar power plant investment amid inflation and economic instability. Additionally, the project ensures reliable water transport and environmental benefits by reducing CO2 emissions through solar energy use. Thus, transitioning to renewable energy at water supply enterprises is feasible and essential for long-term sustainability, transforming operations to be more resilient, efficient, and environmentally friendly.

MEMS Precision Sensors Based on Process Innovation Technology

This article introduces a novel process for achieving micro-scale thermal isolation through solid porous 3D microstructures. It proposes a method to improve existing thermal MEMS devices by utilizing thin-film membrane structures, develops a model for estimating the thermal conductivity of porous microstructures, and constructs porous 3D microstructures made of three different powder materials, studying their applicability for thermal isolation. Breakthroughs have been achieved in process preparation technology, enabling the production of precision MEMS sensors. These sensors are expected to find wide applications in smart cars, intelligent healthcare, electronic resonance sensors, and other fields.

Redefining Theatricality: How the Fourth Wall Shapes Audience Interaction in Gaming Theater

This paper examines the role of the fourth wall in gaming theater and its impact on audience interaction. Traditionally, the fourth wall serves as an invisible boundary separating performers from spectators, dividing the fictional world from the audience. In gaming theater, this boundary is often broken, granting audiences a more active role in shaping the narrative and interacting with performers. Employing an analytical approach and case studies, this research investigates the effects of manipulating the fourth wall on the theatrical experience and audience participation. Two gaming theater productions are examined: In "Reflections of the Dream Realm," the fourth wall is completely dismantled, allowing audiences to participate through sensory engagement and voting. In "Harmony of Whispers," the fourth wall is partially maintained, yet audiences remain collaboratively involved in the storytelling process. Findings indicate that removing the separation between the stage and the audience can fundamentally alter the theatrical experience, transforming audiences from passive observers into active co-creators, particularly within the gaming theater genre, where interactive elements and innovative technologies like voting and augmented reality are employed.

Study of the features of angular stabilization of spacecraft with flexible struc-tural elements with the use mobile control methods

The development of space power engineering is one of the well-known lines in rocket and space science and innovative technologies which attracts the attention of many scientists and researchers. Engineering solutions in space-based solar power plant design and wireless space-to-Earth and satellite-to-satellite power transmission and power spacecraft control methods have been substantiated theoretically to sufficient depth. However, despite this, there is a need to improve methods for and approaches to the development of an optimal design methodology for power spacecraft. A way to improve existing approaches to the development of space-based solar power plants and power satellites may be the use of mobile control methods in the development of an attitude and orbit control system. Such methods allow one to reduce power consumption for control operations. The goal of this paper is to study the features of mobile control and construct a methodology for the development of solar power satellites’ attitude and orbit control system (AOCS) using mobile control algorithms. The paper considers the features of mobile control algorithm synthesis for the attitude control and stabilization of solar power spacecraft (solar power plants and power satellites). Power spacecraft control tasks are classified, and the expediency of using mobile control methods is justified. An analysis is made for the stability problem that arises in controlling power spacecraft with flexible elements. The paper presents methodological recommendations on determining the AOCS design parameters for space-based solar power plants and power spacecraft for wireless satellite-to-satellite power transmission. This methodology may be used in power satellite development.

Effect of channel roughness on the particle diffusion and permeability of carbon nanotubes in reverse electrodialysis process applying molecular dynamics simulation

Innovative technology and methods are crucial for making pure and refreshing water. Two main methods are present to delete soluble salts from water: membrane processes and thermal processes. A beneficial membrane technique is reverse electrodialysis. This research used molecular dynamics (MD) simulation to investigate how channel roughness affected particle diffusion and permeability in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via the reverse electrodialysis process. The results indicate that adding roughness in the CNT duct increased the force between the primary fluid and the duct. Using an armchair-edged CNT structure maximized the electric current in the sample. Furthermore, the roughness increased the intensity of force in the channel, which was due to gravity, leading to a decrease in the mobility of fluid particles. Additionally, several broken hydrogen bonds inside the simulation box increased from 116 to 128 in the duct sample with roughness.

Sustainability-driven electrical engineering optimizing energy efficiency through ai and developing eco-friendly electronics

This paper explores the transformative potential of AI-driven solutions in optimizing energy efficiency and the development of eco-friendly materials for electronics. As global energy consumption and electronic waste continue to rise, innovative technologies are essential to mitigate their environmental impact. AI models have shown significant promise in enhancing the performance of smart grids and residential and industrial energy systems by predicting and adjusting energy usage in real time. Additionally, the research and development of sustainable materials for semiconductors and electronic components offer an important pathway to reducing the environmental footprint of electronics manufacturing. By aligning these advancements with national sustainability and climate goals, this paper highlights the critical role of AI and sustainable materials in creating a more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible future. The paper concludes by suggesting areas for future research, emphasizing the long-term impact of these technologies on the electrical engineering field and their contribution to sustainability.

Impact of implementing virtual journal club on developing competencies for critical appraisal among post-graduate nursing students

BackgroundVirtual journal clubs (VJCs) are innovative technologies with the potential to foster collaboration, facilitate multilingual communication, improve cultural competencies, and expand global professional networks. This allowed participants to be exposed to critical appraisal of the articles. However, its long-term impact on competency development has been debated. This study aimed to investigate the impact of implementing VJCs on developing competencies for critical appraisal among postgraduate nursing students.MethodsA quasi-experimental (pretest/posttest one-group) research design was used with a convenience sample of 40 participants from the community health nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Egypt who agreed to participate. The participants received an online self-administered knowledge and attitude data collection tool through Google Forms. However, critical appraisal skills were evaluated by an observational checklist with a rubric through synchronized mode. Eleven VJC sessions were conducted for each participant. Descriptive analysis served as the primary method for analyzing participants’ responses. Students’ t-test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to measure differences between the pretest and post-test. The study also used a correlation test to assess the relationship of variables.ResultsThe findings indicated a highly statistically significant difference among the participants regarding knowledge, critical appraisal skills, and attitudes toward VJC before, immediately, and six months after VJC session implementation. In addition, a positive significant correlation with a highly statistically significant difference between the participants’ total knowledge score levels, total practice score levels, and total attitude score levels in the immediate post and after six months of VJC session implementation (p < 0.001).ConclusionThe findings indicate this intervention has the potential to enhance critical appraisal competencies among postgraduate students. Therefore, VJCs should be included regularly to enhance critical appraisal competencies in academic settings for continued professional development.

Artikel Tentang Perencanaan dan Pengembangan Bisnis

The important process known as business planning and development allows an organization to establish the strategies, goals, and tactics necessary to grow and succeed in the long term. Businesses are faced with many complex challenges in the current era of globalization, ranging from intense competition to rapid market changes. Therefore, careful business planning is essential to anticipate changes and take advantage of emerging opportunities. In this abstract, business planning and development is very important in today's dynamic business environment. Internal and external environmental analysis, goal setting, strategy development, resource allocation, and implementation are the main steps in the business planning process, which will be discussed thoroughly. In addition, this abstract will show how leadership, innovation, and information technology help business planning and development well. Organizations can optimize performance, increase competitiveness, and better face challenges by emphasizing holistic and sustainable business planning and development. Understanding market, consumer and industry trends is important amidst global uncertainty. Therefore, this abstract emphasizes how important it is to monitor the business environment and be flexible when changing business planning strategies to adapt to changes.

The use of artificial intelligence in the education of people with visual impairment

Over the past decades, technological advances have led to the development of assistive technologies in the field of education. Specifically, in special education, access for people with a disability may require adaptations to educational programs and technological applications to enhance their independence and participation in society. One of these innovative educational technologies is artificial intelligence. Research has shown that the effective application of artificial intelligence is an important aid in the education of students with special educational needs, such as those with visual impairments. This article presents a brief review of recent studies on the application of AI in the education of people with visual impairments and whether it can contribute to improving their quality of life and their equal access to all levels of education. It also provides a case study, the "PeopleLens" system, for an in-depth analysis of the use of AI as an assistive technology.

Cluster Dimensions of the Space of a New Residential District of Ukrainian ‘Post-Socialist’ City

The article presents research material devoted to new dimensions of the spatial organization of residential areas of Ukrainian “post-socialist” city. He is currently faced with the challenges of military actions aimed at destroying the urban environment of Ukrainian cities. Residential areas of the micro-district type of the “post-socialist” city are mostly built on the basis of the postulates of functionalism. In the theory and practice of urban planning, they did not foresee the vulnerability of objects of necessary and social infrastructure. The criteria of centrality, as focus of concentration of functions of the spatial organization of the city, are currently being transformed into criteria of dispersion. Functional zoning acquires the multiplicative nature of multidimensional functional zoning. Fractal urbanism methodology assumes local freedom and global cohesion of individual urban planning elements. New exponential organizational structures with innovative digital technologies create “breakthrough” models of development. One of which is the urban planning cluster. The new residential area “Levada-2” in the city of Poltava (Ukraine) is presented, which demonstrates the latest approaches in the cluster organization of living space.

Implementasi Game Interaktif Kahoot dalam Meningkatkan Literasi Siswa Kelas 2 SD

This research aims to determine the use of the Kahoot application in improving the literacy of second grade elementary school students. This research is classroom action research. Data collection was carried out using test and non-test techniques. Test techniques include tests at the end of cycle I and end of cycle II and non-tests include observing student activities and comparing the results of observations and tests. The data analysis technique uses qualitative descriptive. The PTK design applied uses the Kemmis and Mc Taggart (1998) model. The results of this research are that the Kahoot application is very helpful in increasing elementary school students' literacy very significantly. This is because the Kahoot application is an application that is used as a very innovative and interesting learning media technology, especially for elementary school students who are unfamiliar with digital devices.

Assessing the impact of financial resources on Sorghum yield in Al-Qadarif State, Sudan

The sorghum agricultural sector in Al-Qadarif State, Sudan, plays a pivotal role in ensuring regional food security. However, its productivity is hindered by significant constraints. Substantial improvements in sorghum yield are impeded by the intricate complexities that characterize this sector's financial resources, and agricultural practices. This study in Al-Qadarif State, Sudan, explores the relationship between financial resources and sorghum agrarian productivity. Data were collected from 200 sorghum farmers using standardized questionnaires during the 2022 season, and regression analysis was employed to investigate the association between financial factors and sorghum productivity. The findings indicate that financial accessibility considerations significantly influence sorghum productivity. This emphasizes the importance of improved financial resources for farmers to adopt innovative farming technologies and practices, leading to higher sorghum productivity levels. The study recommends the integration of digital financial services and precision agriculture technologies as a creative solution to enhance financial accessibility and sorghum productivity. By leveraging mobile money platforms and digital credit services, farmers can conveniently access financial resources, enabling them to invest in modern agricultural inputs and technologies. Additionally, the adoption of precision agriculture techniques, such as soil moisture sensors, drone-based crop monitoring, and variable rate application of inputs, can optimize resource utilization, increase yield, and reduce production costs. The combination of these innovative approaches has the potential to bridge the financial and knowledge gaps, promoting the widespread adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. This synergistic approach could significantly improve sorghum productivity, enhance farmer livelihoods, and contribute to regional food security.