Innovative Technologies Research Articles

Health Messaging Strategies for Vaping Prevention and Cessation Among Youth and Young Adults: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT This systematic review evaluates health messaging strategies for the prevention and cessation of e-cigarette use among youth and young adults. Health messaging strategies were defined as the strategic process of developing messages with the intent to shape, reinforce, or change recipients’ health attitudes and behaviors. McGuire’s Communication/Persuasion Model guided the analysis of the messaging strategies, focusing on the model’s five communication inputs (i.e. source, message, channel, audience, destination) and 14 persuasive outcomes. Nine databases were searched from January 2007 to September 2023. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies in English that presented quantitative data on messaging strategies aimed at discouraging vaping among youth and young adults. Each study was also coded for study characteristics and the utilization of theory. Out of 6,045 studies, 25 met the inclusion criteria. The reviewed studies exhibit a diverse array of research methods and a consistent integration of theories. The review emphasizes the nuanced main and interaction effects of various communication inputs, such as message features and audience characteristics, while also pointing out a research gap in message sources. In addition, the utilization of social media for effective messaging to engage the audience requires further research. Only one study specifically evaluated messaging strategies for vaping cessation. More research is imperative to develop targeted and tailored messages that effectively prevent and reduce vaping, especially among populations at higher risk of vaping-related harms, while also leveraging effective channels and innovative communication technologies to engage the audience.

Necessity of assessment and how it affects students' psyche and desire to learn: innovative digital technologies for assessment of art and music teaching in China

ABSTRACT This paper studies the use of innovative digital technologies to assess art and music creative works in China. The authors of the paper conducted an experimental study of the influence of various types of assessment, such as formative and summative, on the academic motivation and mental health of artists and musicians. The study involved second-year students from Xihua University (N = 548). The researchers used the Academic Motivation Scale (AMS) and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS) as psychometric tools of the standardized methods. Summarizing the results obtained, they can conclude that summative assessment stimulates external motivation, while formative assessment contributes to the development of internal motivation of students. These results allow teachers to offer different types of assessment to strengthen a certain type of students’ motivation. The researchers also found that summative assessment could result in a higher level of amotivation. However, they did not confirm the assumption about the negative impact of summative assessment on the mental state of students.

Boosting firms’ absorptive capacity: the digital technologies edge

PurposeThis study aims to explore how firms can enhance their innovation processes by effectively utilizing external knowledge and employing digital technologies. Specifically, it emphasizes the role of absorptive capacity (ACAP) in external knowledge acquisition and assimilation (potential ACAP), as well as transformation and exploitation (realized ACAP), highlighting the necessity of equipping firms with digital technologies to support ACAP activities.Design/methodology/approachTo achieve the research purpose, we conducted a structured literature review of academic papers sourced from Scopus-Elsevier.FindingsThe key findings encompass the identification of common digital technologies supporting ACAP and explore how these technologies contribute to knowledge acquisition, assimilation, transformation and exploitation. The main results show that social media and online communities are the most studied technologies in relation to ACAP activities. Research predominantly centres on potential ACAP – with acquisition activity more studied than assimilation – rather than realized ACAP – with only social media and online communities demonstrating full support for transformation and exploitation activities.Research limitations/implicationsThis research represents a pioneering joint study of ACAP and digital technologies, advancing understanding beyond organizational perspectives and expanding open innovation literature by integrating ACAP role in technology collaborations. A call for qualitative investigations into the relationship between digital technologies and ACAP emerged.Practical implicationsThe findings offer valuable guidance to innovation managers, aiding them in selecting appropriate digital technologies to strengthen ACAP activities.Originality/valueThis work’s uniqueness lies in bridging the gaps between open innovation, ACAP and digital technologies, which are often studied in isolation.

The importance of innovative technologies in creating sustainable agriculture in the European Union

The importance of innovative technologies in creating sustainable agriculture in the European Union

The triple helix collaboration: lessons from a Chinese provincial innovation ecosystem

Purpose Innovation is vital for sustainable regional development. Government is generally not a source of innovation per se, but the authors shows that by establishing and funding an industrial innovation ecosystem, it can create fertile conditions for research institutions to introduce innovative technologies into industry and for industry to introduce its gaps and needs to motivate and direct academic research. This paper aims to present a case study of the Jiangsu Industrial Technology Research Institute (JITRI) as a “triple helix” collaboration model engaging Industry-University-Research (IUR) institutions. The authors aim to provide a fresh perspective on constructing innovation ecosystems, promoting value creation and advancing the adoption of industrial technology. Design/methodology/approach Taking JITRI as a case study, this research examines its innovative approaches to interfacing with IUR organizations within China’s Yangtze Delta region. The authors propose a multilayered framework where JITRI serves as the core, facilitating the formation of a robust innovation ecosystem with diverse IUR entities. Findings This framework comprises three layers: core, platform and support. JITRI acts as the central nexus, binding these elements together and fostering a cohesive innovation ecosystem. By analyzing the operational mechanisms of the Jiangsu Provincial innovation system, the authors gain valuable insights into how JITRI bridges the gap between academia and industry. This facilitates the efficient commercialization of technologies. The success of the JITRI approach presents a compelling model for emulation by other provincial innovation ecosystems seeking to enhance their innovation capabilities. Research limitations/implications This study enriches the ongoing conversation on innovation ecosystems, proposing novel avenues for further research. However, the field requires continuous monitoring through longitudinal studies. Given the long-term nature of such initiatives, the full impact of this approach might only be realized over several decades. Practical implications JITRI aims to create a robust and innovative provincial innovation ecosystem through its focus on IUR collaboration. This unique approach offers valuable insights and ideas for fostering the development of thriving innovation ecosystems in other provinces. These insights encompass new perspectives on innovation ecosystem development, value creation and industrial advancement. Originality/value This study pioneers the use of the JITRI system as a case study, offering valuable insights with potential application to innovation ecosystems across China and globally.

The use of telepathology in veterinary medicine: a scoping review.

Telepathology, as a subset of teleconsulting, is pathology interpretation performed at a distance. Telepathology is not a new phenomenon, but since ~2015, significant advances in information technology and telecommunications coupled with the pandemic have led to unprecedented sophistication, accessibility, and use of telepathology in human and veterinary medicine. Furthermore, telepathology can connect veterinary practices to distant laboratories and provide support for underserved animals and communities. Through our scoping review, we provide an overview of how telepathology is being used in veterinary medicine, identify gaps in the literature, and highlight future areas of research and service development. We searched MEDLINE, CAB Abstracts, and the gray literature, and included all relevant literature. Despite the widespread use of digital microscopy in large veterinary diagnostic laboratories, we identified a paucity of literature describing the use of telepathology in veterinary medicine, with a significant gap in studies addressing the validation of whole-slide imaging for primary diagnosis. Underutilization of telepathology to support postmortem examinations conducted in the field was also identified, which indicates a potential area for service development. The use of telepathology is increasing in veterinary medicine, and pathologists must keep pace with the changing technology, ensure the validation of innovative technologies, and identify novel uses to advance the profession.

Application of 3D Printing in Cleft Lip and Palate Repair.

This manuscript reviews the transformative impact of 3-dimensional (3D) printing technologies in the treatment and management of cleft lip and palate (CLP), highlighting its application across presurgical planning, surgical training, implantable scaffolds, and postoperative care. By integrating patient-specific data through computer-aided design and manufacturing, 3D printing offers tailored solutions that improve surgical outcomes, reduce operation times, and enhance patient care. The review synthesizes current research findings, technical advancements, and clinical applications, illustrating the potential of 3D printing to revolutionize CLP treatment. Further, it discusses the future directions of combining 3D printing with other innovative technologies like artificial intelligence, 4D printing, and in situ bioprinting for more comprehensive care strategies. This paper underscores the necessity for multidisciplinary collaboration and further research to overcome existing challenges and fully utilize the capabilities of 3D printing in CLP repair.

From Blackboards to Gadgets: Unveiling Academic Dynamics and Digital Landscapes in Far Eastern University-Manila through the Integration of Technology in Classrooms

The researchers ought to shed light on the importance of educational technology in the student’s academic performance by looking into how students perceive the integration of educational technology in Far Eastern University–Manila, aiming to collect insights from 60 students and discuss how these students’ perception of the integration of technology affects their familiarity and confidence in utilizing innovative educational technologies. Using quantitative research method, the data were gathered through an online survey questionnaire to collect key insights on how students view technology integrated into their classes. The responses from the survey were analyzed by comparing and correlating their responses and finding their common grounds. Through the data analysis, the findings reveal that many of the students perceive integration of technology as something that is academically advantageous, utilizing diverse educational technologies to make their academic journey easier, more motivating, and more engaging. In the same responses, it is reported that few students still regard educational technology as a limitation that challenges their academic performance, limiting their performance in a way that distracts them from achieving their maximum focus and academic retention. These findings suggest that how students perceive the incorporation of different technological tools and platforms impacts how they perform in their classes by either developing or provoking regression in their capabilities and behavior.

INTEGRATING SOLAR POWER WITH EXISTING GRIDS: STRATEGIES, TECHNOLOGIES, AND CHALLENGES – A REVIEW

Integrating solar power into existing electrical grids is critical to realizing a sustainable and resilient global energy landscape. This review paper offers a thorough overview of solar power's significance and potential for transforming energy systems, emphasizing its benefits for grid stability, fossil fuel reduction, and environmental sustainability. It details essential strategies for successful solar integration, such as adopting both grid-tied and off-grid systems, advancements in energy storage to mitigate solar intermittency, and applying innovative grid technologies for enhanced energy management. Additionally, the paper navigates through the technological breakthroughs aiding solar power's incorporation into grids and confronts the challenges, including technical issues like grid scalability and economic barriers such as investment costs, regulatory complexities, and social-environmental impacts. Drawing on case studies from leading regions in solar integration, it distills lessons learned and identifies strategies and technologies that have surmounted these hurdles. The review also projects future trends and innovations in solar technology and grid management, underscoring the need for ongoing innovation and supportive policies to bolster solar power's role in energy systems. By collating insights into solar power integration's current state and prospects, this paper will guide policymakers, industry players, and researchers toward harnessing solar energy's full potential, highlighting its indispensable contribution to a sustainable energy future.

How Rhizosphere Microbial Assemblage Is Influenced by Dragon Fruits with White and Red Flesh

The synthesis of betalain using microorganisms is an innovative developmental technology, and the excavation of microorganisms closely related to betalain can provide certain theoretical and technical support to this technology. In this study, the characteristics of soil microbial community structures and their functions in the rhizospheres of white-fleshed dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus) and red-fleshed dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) were analyzed. The results show that the soil bacterial and fungal compositions in the rhizospheres were shaped differently between H. undatus and H. polyrhizus. Bacterial genera such as Kribbella and TM7a were the unique dominant soil bacterial genera in the rhizospheres of H. undatus, whereas Bradyrhizobium was the unique dominant soil bacterial genus in the rhizospheres of H. polyrhizus. Additionally, Myrothecium was the unique dominant soil fungal genus in the rhizospheres of H. polyrhizus, whereas Apiotrichum and Arachniotus were the unique dominant soil fungal genera in the rhizospheres of H. undatus. Moreover, TM7a, Novibacillus, Cupriavidus, Mesorhizobium, Trechispora, Madurella, Cercophora, and Polyschema were significantly enriched in the rhizospheres of H. undatus, whereas Penicillium, Blastobotrys, Phialemonium, Marasmius, and Pseudogymnoascus were significantly enriched in the rhizospheres of H. polyrhizus. Furthermore, the relative abundances of Ascomycota and Penicillium were significantly higher in the rhizospheres of H. polyrhizus than in those of H. undatus.

Exploring opportunities to strengthen rural tuberculosis health service delivery: a qualitative study with health workers in Tibet autonomous region, China

ObjectivesThis qualitative study aimed to explore opportunities to strengthen tuberculosis (TB) health service delivery from the perspectives of health workers providing TB care in Shigatse prefecture of Tibet Autonomous Region,...

Point-of-care testing: a critical analysis of the market and future trends

Point-of-care testing (POCT) involves conducting diagnostic tests outside the laboratory. These tests are utilized for their quick and reliable results in detecting chronic diseases and acute infections. We examined the historical market value trends of the POCT industry and projected its future growth. POCT devices offer several advantages, such as portability, no specific storage requirements, and simplicity of use. However, issues such as inaccurate results can reduce demand for POCT compared to traditional laboratory testing alternatives. While the benefits of POCT are clear, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges. The accuracy of POCT devices can be compromised due to factors such as user error, environmental conditions, and limitations in technology. Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness of these devices is often a concern, particularly in resource-limited settings. The regulatory landscape for POCT is also complex and varies by region, which can pose challenges for manufacturers and end-users. Improvements in POCT devices’ sensitivity, specificity, cost, and turnaround time for test results could enhance their utility. Enhancements to a POCT device should be considered if they are economically viable and lead to a significant increase in demand. Our financial analysis of the POCT market revealed a positive growth trend. We identified potential areas for growth that could help the industry progress and expand in line with its projected growth in the coming years. The industry could focus on integrating intelligent technologies into POCT devices and collaborating with the innovative technology sector to increase revenue. It could also develop more sensitive and accurate POCT devices for non-communicable diseases. Another potential area of growth is in diseases that require continuous patient monitoring but where conventional clinical testing is time-consuming. Enhancing the POCT devices used in these areas could revolutionize medical diagnosis and potentially save many lives, provided they meet clinical standards.

Voltage Optimization on Low Voltage Distribution Transformer Zones Using Batteries in Uganda

In the context of Uganda's rapidly growing energy demands and the need for sustainable solutions, this study explores the implementation of voltage optimization techniques in Low Voltage (LV) distribution transformer zones. The research focuses on the innovative integration of batteries to optimize voltage levels, thereby enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the electrical distribution system. By analyzing real-time data from various LV transformer zones in Uganda, this study investigates the impact of voltage fluctuations on the overall power distribution network. The research methodology involves the design and deployment of battery energy storage systems (BESS) strategically placed within LV distribution transformer zones. These BESS units are utilized to store excess energy during periods of low demand and release it during peak hours, ensuring consistent voltage levels and minimizing losses in the distribution network. The study evaluates the effectiveness of this approach through extensive simulations and on-site experiments, considering factors such as battery capacity, charging/discharging rates, and load variations. A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis is conducted to evaluate the potential financial savings and environmental impact associated with this sustainable energy solution. The findings of this research indicate significant improvements in voltage regulation, reduced system losses, and enhanced reliability in LV distribution transformer zones. Additionally, the study demonstrates the feasibility of integrating batteries into the existing infrastructure, thereby contributing to the optimization of the energy distribution system in Uganda. The outcomes of this research provide valuable insights for policymakers, utility companies, and researchers, emphasizing the importance of embracing innovative technologies to address the energy challenges faced by developing nations like Uganda.

Impact of Condition Variations on Bioelectrochemical System Performance: An Experimental Investigation of Sulfamethoxazole Degradation

Bioelectrochemical systems (BESs) are an innovative technology for the efficient degradation of antibiotics. Shewanella oneidensis (S. oneidensis) MR-1 plays a pivotal role in degrading sulfamethoxazole (SMX) in BESs. Our study investigated the effect of BES conditions on SMX degradation, focusing on microbial activity. The results revealed that BESs operating with a 0.05 M electrolyte concentration and 2 mA/cm2 current density outperformed electrolysis cells (ECs). Additionally, higher electrolyte concentrations and elevated current density reduced SMX degradation efficiency. The presence of nutrients had minimal effect on the growth of S. oneidensis MR-1 in BESs; it indicates that S. oneidensis MR-1 can degrade SMX without nutrients in a short period of time. We also highlighted the significance of mass transfer between the cathode and anode. Limiting mass transfer at a 10 cm electrode distance enhanced S. oneidensis MR-1 activity and BES performance. In summary, this study reveals the complex interaction of factors affecting the efficiency of BES degradation of antibiotics and provides support for environmental pollution control.

Environmental stewardship in the oil and gas sector: Current practices and future directions

This paper provides an overview of the current practices and future directions in environmental stewardship within the oil and gas industry, focusing on key areas of concern and strategies for improvement. The oil and gas industry has made significant strides in environmental stewardship in recent years, driven by a combination of regulatory requirements, corporate initiatives, and stakeholder pressure. One of the primary areas of focus has been the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions associated with extraction, refining, and transportation processes. Companies have implemented technologies such as carbon capture and storage to minimize their carbon footprint, alongside investments in renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures to transition towards cleaner energy alternatives. Furthermore, the industry has placed increasing emphasis on the responsible management of water resources, recognizing the potential environmental impacts of water extraction and usage in oil and gas operations. Strategies for water recycling, reuse, and wastewater treatment have been adopted to mitigate pollution and minimize strain on local ecosystems. Biodiversity conservation has also emerged as a critical aspect of environmental stewardship in the oil and gas sector, with companies undertaking environmental impact assessments and collaborating with conservation organizations to minimize habitat disruption and restore ecosystems affected by their operations. Community engagement and social responsibility are integral components of environmental stewardship, with companies seeking to address the social impacts of their operations through employment opportunities, infrastructure development, and social programs benefiting local communities. However, the industry continues to face challenges and limitations in its efforts to minimize environmental impact. Accidental spills, leaks, and other incidents pose significant ecological risks, highlighting the importance of stringent safety regulations and emergency response protocols. Moreover, the transition to renewable energy presents challenges for traditional oil and gas companies, requiring substantial capital investment and strategic planning. To address these challenges and advance environmental stewardship, several future directions are proposed. These include accelerating the transition to renewable energy, enhancing transparency and accountability in reporting environmental performance, strengthening environmental regulations and enforcement, investing in research and development of innovative technologies, and fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, governments, NGOs, and local communities. Keywords: Stewardship, Oil, Gas, Sustainability, Climate, Mitigation

General characteristics of technologies, innovations in intellectual property law

In this work, we consider technologies, innovations and intellectual property rights. In the context of modern development of all spheres of human life, the concepts of «technology», «innovation» and «innovative technologies» are an integral aspect of the present. They play an important and key role in the competitiveness of not only individual enterprises and organizations, but also in law and economics in general, since innovative technologies are the basis for the positive development of society and the legal relations that arise in this regard, including legal relations in the field of intellectual property rights. Intellectual property is the result of intellectual and creative activity, which is formalized and grants the author or a person who is granted the right of ownership of the result by law, which is acquired, exercised and protected in accordance with the established procedure, rules and legally defined norms. It is the objects of intellectual property rights that are in clear interaction with technology and innovation. Detailed attention is paid to the essence and content of innovations and technologies in the field of intellectual activity, in particular in the production and change of characteristics of the relevant objects of intellectual property rights. The author focuses on the conceptual apparatus of such concepts as «innovation», «technology», «intellectual property», «intellectual property rights», and technology transfer. The modern national and foreign literature is analyzed with a view to defining the basic concepts of the study and their legislative consolidation. The author analyzes the features of technology transfer, in particular, it is established that innovative technologies are endowed with novelty, revolutionary nature, irreplaceability, uniqueness, and inevitability. The author establishes the interconnectedness of the content of «innovations» and «technologies» in relation to intellectual property rights, namely, directly to intellectual property objects, which are manifested by applying know-how or an invention to a specific result of intellectual activity in the production process.

Crop Yield Prediction using Machine Learning

Weather profoundly impacts agricultural outcomes, making accurate crop prediction vital for farmers' decision-making. This abstract presents a comprehensive overview of weather-based crop prediction, emphasizing its significance, key components, and methodologies. The process begins with the collection and analysis of historical weatherdata encompassing variables such as temperature, precipitation, humidity, and sunlight. Utilizing Python programming and data visualization libraries like Pandas and Matplotlib facilitates the exploration and visualization of this data, revealing trends and patterns. Machine learning algorithms, including regression and ensemble methods, are employedto develop predictive models. These models leverage historical weather data to forecast future crop yields accurately. Python's extensive libraries, such as Scikit-learn and TensorFlow, offer robust tools for model development and evaluation. Incorporating advanced technologies like remote sensing and satellite imagery further refines the prediction process. These tools provide real-time insights into crop health and growth, enhancing the precision of forecasts. Ultimately, weather-based crop prediction serves as a valuable decision support tool for farmers, enabling informed choices regarding planting, irrigation, and harvesting practices. By harnessing historical weather data, machine learning algorithms, and innovative technologies, stakeholders can optimize agricultural productivity, mitigate risks, and contribute to global food security

Digital biomarkers: 3PM approach revolutionizing chronic disease management — EPMA 2024 position

AbstractNon-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) have become a major global health concern. They constitute the leading cause of disabilities, increased morbidity, mortality, and socio-economic disasters worldwide.Medical condition-specific digital biomarker (DB) panels have emerged as valuable tools to manage NCDs. DBs refer to the measurable and quantifiable physiological, behavioral, and environmental parameters collected for an individual through innovative digital health technologies, including wearables, smart devices, and medical sensors. By leveraging digital technologies, healthcare providers can gather real-time data and insights, enabling them to deliver more proactive and tailored interventions to individuals at risk and patients diagnosed with NCDs.Continuous monitoring of relevant health parameters through wearable devices or smartphone applications allows patients and clinicians to track the progression of NCDs in real time. With the introduction of digital biomarker monitoring (DBM), a new quality of primary and secondary healthcare is being offered with promising opportunities for health risk assessment and protection against health-to-disease transitions in vulnerable sub-populations. DBM enables healthcare providers to take the most cost-effective targeted preventive measures, to detect disease developments early, and to introduce personalized interventions. Consequently, they benefit the quality of life (QoL) of affected individuals, healthcare economy, and society at large.DBM is instrumental for the paradigm shift from reactive medical services to 3PM approach promoted by the European Association for Predictive, Preventive, and Personalized Medicine (EPMA) involving 3PM experts from 55 countries worldwide. This position manuscript consolidates multi-professional expertise in the area, demonstrating clinically relevant examples and providing the roadmap for implementing 3PM concepts facilitated through DBs.

Exploring FSO link performance in varied atmospheric conditions to optimize 5G communication with a polarized quasi-diffuse transmitter

Abstract Free space optical (FSO) communication is an innovative technology that holds immense promise for numerous applications thanks to its high data transmission rates, rapid scalability, cost-effectiveness, superior security, and comprehensive capacity access techniques for Gbps data transmission. FSO communication relies on the Earth’s atmosphere as the medium, which introduces atmospheric disturbances that have driven the development of spatial diversity techniques aimed at enhancing the technology’s performance. Our proposed system employs a polarized quasi-diffused system with a fork as a spatial diversity scheme, which eliminates the need for multiple transmitters. We have developed a model that integrates both simulation designs to achieve optimal results. The proposed model has demonstrated excellent performance under various atmospheric turbulences, including rain, fog, and haze, exhibiting a very high maximum quality factor, improved received power, and better bit error rate (BER). Finally, we have obtained, analyzed, and extensively discussed the simulation results to provide a comprehensive understanding of the proposed model’s potential benefits. Our simulations show a maximum quality factor of 23 compared to existing models in much better, a 34 % increase in received power, and a 31 % decrease in BER compared to existing models. These results highlight the potential benefits of the proposed model for FSO communication systems.

ProQuiz

ProQuiz is an app designed for educational purposes, specifically to help users prepare for multiple-choice exams, especially in the field of computer science. The app aims to make studying enjoyable by incorporating elements of gamification. The primary objective of ProQuiz is to assist users in getting ready for subjective tests used in admissions and recruitment processes, with a focus on the computer science domain. The app is organized into three main modules: computer science, reasoning, and analytical skills. Each of these modules covers various sub-categories to address different subjects. During the quiz, users have access to helpful features such as hints, the ability to skip questions, and a pause/life-lines option. These features can be used only once per user. The app also provides feedback on progress throughout the quiz, and upon completion, it displays the user's results. The overall aim is to provide users with an engaging platform for practicing and enhancing their knowledge in a variety of subjects related to computer science. This research paper examines the development and effectiveness of ProQuiz. Through user testing and analysis, we evaluate its usability and engagement. Additionally, we propose enhancements, including personalized learning paths and social features. This paper contributes insights into innovative educational technology and suggests avenues for future improvement of ProQuiz.