Assessment Of Technologies Research Articles

Bridging the Visualization Gap

The integration of three-dimensional (3D) modelling tools in educational settings promises a transformative shift in teaching complex concepts. Despite their potential, the actual deployment of such tools faces substantial pedagogical and technical challenges, primarily due to the "visualization gap" between traditional 2D resources and 3D constructs. This gap can significantly hinder students' understanding and retention of complex spatial concepts critical in disciplines such as medicine, engineering, and architecture. To address these challenges, this paper introduces the Integrated VR Educational Technology Assessment (IVRETA) framework, designed to evaluate and guides the development of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools in education. IVRETA assesses tools across three dimensions: Interaction and Usability, Learning Enhancement, and Authentic Pedagogy and Adaptability. Applying this framework, we evaluate 3D Whiteboard, a practical tool designed to facilitate dynamic interaction with 3D models and enhance educational outcomes through immersive learning experiences. The paper underscores the potential of the 3D Whiteboard in bridging the visualization gap and improving educational practices across various disciplines, demonstrating how IVRETA can guide the assessment and improvement of educational technologies. By providing a robust foundation for the development and enhancement of educational technologies, IVRETA supports ongoing innovation in educational settings.

Translational Algorithms for Technological Dietary Quality Assessment Integrating Nutrimetabolic Data with Machine Learning Methods

Translational Algorithms for Technological Dietary Quality Assessment Integrating Nutrimetabolic Data with Machine Learning Methods

Clinical Application and Risk Assessment of CAR-T Cell Technology in Cancer Immunotherapy

As a cutting-edge personalized treatment method, CAR-T cell technology transforms patients' own T cells through genetic engineering, making them have the ability to specifically identify and kill tumor cells. The aim of this paper is to thoroughly organize the foundational principles and clinical utility of CAR-T cell technology, highlighting its recent advancements in treating both hematological and solid tumors. Through a comprehensive assessment of CAR-T cell technology's efficacy and risks, this study aims to inform clinical decision-making. Initially, the paper outlines the basic mechanisms of CAR-T cell technology, followed by an analysis of its notable therapeutic outcomes in hematological tumors. Additionally, it addresses the challenges posed by solid tumor treatment, including antigen expression complexity and tumor microenvironment impact. Emphasis is placed on the crucial role of regulatory bodies in enhancing oversight and developing risk management strategies to safeguard patient safety.

The Transformative Impact of E-learning on Workplace Safety and Health Training in the Industry: a Comprehensive Analysis of Effectiveness, Implementation, and Future Opportunities

This study explores the transformative potential of E-learning in workplace safety and health training. This highlights the flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness of E-learning for both employers and employees. This study uses a multi-faceted approach, including literature review, case studies, expert interviews, technological assessment, and data analysis, to provide a comprehensive analysis. It also explores the use of emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in E-learning. The findings revealed that E-learning can enhance knowledge retention, reduce workplace accidents, and increase employee engagement. However, challenges such as technological barriers and resistance to new methods persist. The study concludes by recommending a gradual implementation approach, content customization, integration of emerging technologies, continuous assessment, and strategies to maintain high levels of employee engagement.

Health Technology Assessment for digital health technologies in India: A framework for action.

Health Technology Assessment for digital health technologies in India: A framework for action.

Methodology for comparative assessment of battery technologies: Experimental design, modeling, performance indicators and validation with four technologies

An increasing number of applications with diverse requirements incorporate various battery technologies. Selecting the most suitable battery technology becomes a tedious task as several aspects need to be taken into account. Two of the key aspects are the battery characteristics under temperature variations and their degradation. While numerous contributions using tailored assessment methods to evaluate both aspects for a particular application exist in the literature, a general methodology for analysis is necessary to enable a quantitative comparison between different technologies. We propose in this paper a novel methodology, based on performance indicators, to quantify the potential and limitations of a battery technology for diverse applications sharing a similar operational profile. A quantification of phenomena such as the influence of high and low temperatures on the battery, or the effect of cycling and state of charge on battery aging is obtained. In pursuit of these indicators, an experimental procedure and the fitting of aging model parameters that allow their calculation are proposed. As an additional outcome of this work, a general aging model that allows comprehensive analysis of aging behavior is developed and the trade-off between experimental time and accuracy is analyzed to find an optimal experimental time between 2 and 4 months, depending on the studied battery technology. Finally, the proposed methodology is applied to four battery technologies in order to show its potential in a real case-study.

ФАРМАКОЭКОНОМИЧЕСКИЕ ПОДХОДЫ К АНАЛИЗУ СТОИМОСТИ АНТИРЕТРОВИРУСНЫХ ПРЕПАРАТОВ, ПРИМЕНЯЕМЫЕ В ТЕРАПИИ ВИЧ-ИНФИЦИРОВАННЫХ ПАЦИЕНТОВ

The legislation in force in the Russian Federation guarantees HIV patients protection of their rights in labor, education and other spheres of life, as well as free counseling, diagnosis and treatment of HIV infection. The continued increase in the number of infected people and, more importantly, the emergence of the HIV epidemic from risk groups into the general population highlights the need for additional improvement in the effectiveness of measures taken to counter the spread of infection. In this regard, it is necessary to use the most rational measures, both from the point of view of efficiency and safety, and from the point of view of costs. The most suitable tool for solving these problems is pharmacoeconomical analysis. At the same time, conducting pharmacoeconomical analysis in the field of HIV infection, as well as in any other nosology, involves the need to take into account certain features at the stages of planning and implementation of the study. It is necessary to highlight some key features of the methodology of pharmacoeconomical analysis in the assessment of healthcare technologies in the field of HIV infection, in particular, cost minimization analysis, which involves choosing a medical technology with minimal costs by comparing the monetary value of alternative technologies, provided the same therapeutic effectiveness. The main object of the study was the documented medical histories of HIV-infected patients, statistical and analytical methods of analysis were used and it was established that in the Russian Federation and in Kuzbass there are all drugs for the treatment of patients with HIV infection included in modern lists of treatment standards according to clinical recommendations. The difference in the cost of antiretroviral drugs at the price of government funding has been established, which affects the costs of treating HIV-infected patients.

A methodology to assess indicators of technological development of the industry: The electronics industry case

Subject. The article deals with assessing the technological development of the industry. Objectives. The focus is on development and testing of a methodology for evaluating indicators of technological development of the industry. Methods. The study rests on general scientific principles and research methods, like abstraction, generalization of approaches to industry’s technological development assessment, analysis, synthesis, systematization, and generalization of obtained results. Results. The developed methodology includes five stages: (1) assessment of preconditions for technological level change; (2) analysis of intensity of modernization; (3) analysis of staff development, growth of labor productivity and remuneration level; (4) assessment of innovation activity; (5) analysis of consequences of changes in the technological level as an increase in value added, return on capital, and sustainable growth. Conclusions. I tested the methodology on data from a sample of electronic industry enterprises (OKVED 26 Manufacture of Computer, Electronic and Optical Products). Calculations show that there are evolutionary, but not large–scale changes. However, there are no signs of noticeable innovative development. At the same time, there are significant changes in individual companies, like PAO Element, controlled by State Corporation Rostec Group. The analysis of the company's consolidated financial statements showed a significant inflow of resources, an increase in investment and innovation activity, staff development, an increase in value added, return on capital, and accelerated growth.

Provision of Digital Primary Health Care Services: Overview of Reviews.

Digital health is a growing field, and many digital interventions have been implemented on a large scale since the COVID-19 pandemic, mainly in primary health care (PHC). The development of digital health interventions and their application in PHC are encouraged by the World Health Organization. The increased number of published scientific papers on this topic has resulted in an overwhelming amount of information, but there is no overview of reviews to summarize this evidence. This study aims to provide policy makers, health managers, and researchers with a summary of evidence on digital interventions used in PHC. This overview of reviews searched the Web of Science and MEDLINE databases for systematic and scoping reviews on assessments of digital technologies implemented in PHC published from January 2007 to March 2023. Only reviews that addressed digital interventions whose targets were real patients or health care providers (HCPs) were included. A total of 236 records were identified from the search strategy, of which 42 (17.8%) full-text papers were selected for analysis, and 18 (7.6%) reviews met the eligibility criteria. In total, 61% (11/18) of the reviews focused their analysis on specific digital health interventions (client-to-provider telemedicine, provider-to-provider telemedicine, health worker decision support systems, systems for tracking patients' health status, client participation and self-care platforms, and provision of education and training to health workers), and 39% (7/18) of the reviews focused on specific topics related to PHC (preventive care, chronic disease management, behavioral health disorders, the COVID-19 pandemic, multicomponent PHC interventions, and care coordination). Most studies in the included reviews agreed on barriers to implementation, such as software and apps developed without involving end users, the lack of training of HCPs and patients in digital technology use, and the lack of reimbursement and billing strategies for remote consultations. However, they showed several mixed results related to health service quality and patients' clinical conditions and behavior changes. Research in digital health applied to PHC is still concentrated in high-income countries, mainly in North America and Europe. The mixed results related to health service quality and patients' clinical conditions or behavior changes may have been caused by deficiencies in the process of implementing digital interventions. It is necessary to examine the entire impact pathway and the causal relationship among implementation, health service quality, and clinical condition outcomes to support the spread of digital health in PHC settings.

Cost of epilepsy in the Russian Federation

Background. Epilepsy underdiagnosis in Russia, population aging, innovative drugs and expensive treatment regimens, the introduction of additional and alternative methods such as neurosurgery, annually increase the cost for treatment of epilepsy patients. In this regard, an issue of maximizing benefits for the largest number of the population becomes relevant. Pharmacoeconomical research within the assessment of healthcare technologies helps to choose the most economically and medically effective treatment strategy among numerous alternatives.Objective: analysis of epilepsy-associated costs in the Russian Federation, aimed at supporting decision-making processes in the field of health policy and financing.Material and methods. The empirical study was based on collecting the data on a continuous sampling of 384 epilepsy outpatient records from subjects aged 19 to 79 years for the period 2019–2022. The issues related to all costs of epilepsy were discussed. While planning, conducting and analyzing these studies, the principles of strengthening the reporting of observational studies in epidemiology (STROBE) were taken into account.Results. The total annual per-patient expenditure on epilepsy treatment comprised a fifth of gross domestic product per capita. Indirect costs exceed direct cost savings. It was found out that the economic damage caused to society, family, and individual related to epilepsy is three times higher than the direct costs.Conclusion. The results obtained are consistent with other publications in which unemployment among epilepsy patients is one of the major cost-determining factors and illustrates a critical need to maintain employment for such patients or to find suitable alternative work through professional retraining.

Nutrient circularity of an anaerobic digestion project in a typical intensive rice cultivation village in the Vietnamese Mekong delta region: a regional material flow analysis and discussion of modeling practices

AbstractRice is the third largest agricultural commodity in the world. Intensive rice production is associated with high fertilizer application, and vast quantities of rice straw are often disposed of by open burning. As emissions of N and P from fertilizer and their impacts are highly spatially disparate, it is crucial to locally assess potential solutions for nutrient circularity. A model framework was established to evaluate the potential impact of local N, P and C cycles along with suitable circularity indicators. This framework was applied for a case study in the typical intensive rice cultivation village Hậu Mỹ Bắc B in the Mekong Delta using STAN modeling software. A novel technique, based on a patented temperature-phased anaerobic digestion (TPAD) loop-reactor design was investigated as a measure to reduce rice straw open burning, generate bioenergy and recover digestate for nutrient recirculation. The case study showed that rice straw TPAD could reduce open burning by 60%, while the N recovery rate increased to 21% when 200 ± 34 Mg/a of inorganic fertilizer was replaced with digestate. For C and P, the recovery rates increased to 14% and 11%, respectively. Based on the results, we concluded that TPAD has a strong impact on local nutrient circularity in terms of recirculation and sufficiency. Furthermore, the developed framework is suitable to use for master planning of nutrient circularity and for technological impact assessments at local scale. However, versatile, dynamic, and comparable monitoring frameworks with harmonized indicators to identify options for nutrient circularity are required for the detailed modeling of regional nutrient management.

Carbon dioxide injection into the Achimov formations using reinjection technology by the example of Ach3-4 formation in the Novo-Urengoy area of the Urengoy field

The prerequisites for the study are the calculation results for the cycling process, where carbon dioxide is proposed as the injection agent into the Achimov formations instead of dry gas, with the goal of increasing the condensate recovery factor. The work is focused on the efficiency assessment of carbon dioxide reinjection technology and reducing carbon footprint at a late stage of field development. The research object is the Аch3-4 formation within the Novo-Urengoy license area of the Urengoy field. The leading method to identify this problem is the results of the full-scale composite dynamic model in the ECLIPSE 300 format. The model takes into account the history of field development on depletion. The articles deals with two schemes for injecting carbon dioxide into the formation. In the first scheme, pure carbon dioxide is injected in a closed-loop system, but carbon neutrality through storage is not achieved. In the second scheme, carbon dioxide is injected using reinjection technology. Once injection begins, gas production stops. Only the condensate separated from the formation gas during low-temperature separation is sold and sent for further processing. After allocation of the condensate, the mixture of natural gas and carbon dioxide, in a specific proportion, is sent to the compressor station for reinjection into the formation in a gaseous state. Injecting pure carbon dioxide achieves a condensate recovery factor similar to that of gas injection with a 30 % carbon dioxide mixture. However, this option is less economically viable compared to the base and other scenarios due to high capital costs for upgrading the existing gas processing equipment (requiring the construction of an amine treatment unit). With carbon dioxide injection using reinjection technology, in addition to recovering extra condensate that had condensed during natural depletion, a reduction in the carbon footprint is also achieved. To maximize the condensate recovery factor, the optimal concentration of carbon dioxide in the injection mixture has been determined. The optimal timing for the start of injection was identified to maximize gas recovery. Economic efficiency is expected from the additional recovery of condensate trapped in the reservoir and from achieving carbon neutrality through the monetization and storage of carbon dioxide.

How to make sense of generative AI as a science communication researcher? A conceptual framework in the context of critical engagement with scientific information

A guiding theory for a continuous and cohesive discussion regarding generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in science communication is still unavailable. Here, we propose a framework for characterizing, evaluating, and comparing AI-based information technologies in the context of critical engagement with scientific information in online environments. Hierarchically constructed, the framework observes technological properties, user experience, content presentation, and the context in which the technology is being used. Understandable and applicable for non-experts in AI systems, the framework affords a holistic yet practical assessment of various AI-based information technologies, providing both a reflection aid and a conceptual baseline for scholarly references.

The ‘glass route’ for improving the sustainability of photovoltaic technology

The ‘glass route’ for improving the sustainability of photovoltaic technology Building upon previous life cycle assessments of photovoltaic technologies, the sustainability of photovoltaic modules will be increased by improving the mechanical and optical properties of the glass and plastics (PET and EVA) used to manufacture the modules. The reduction of ion migration towards the active solar cell will extend the lifetime of the modules and facilitate its recyclability at the end of life. Bismuth oxide has been tested as a material to improve the properties of the glass cover.

Outcomes of Patients With Early and Locally Advanced Lung Cancer: Protocol for the Italian Lung Cancer Observational Study (LUCENT).

Lung cancer, predominantly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), remains a formidable challenge, necessitating an in-depth understanding of evolving treatment paradigms. The Italian Lung Cancer Observational Study (LUCENT) addresses this need by investigating the outcomes of patients with early and locally advanced lung cancer in Italy. With a focus on real-world data and patient registries, this study aims to provide comprehensive insights into clinical, psychosocial, and economic impacts, contributing to informed decision-making in health care. LUCENT is a prospective observational multicenter cohort study enrolling patients eligible for minimally invasive manual, robot-assisted, or traditional open surgery. The study will develop a web-based registry to collect longitudinal surgical, oncological, and socioeconomic outcome data. The primary objectives include performance assessment through the establishment of national benchmarks based on risk-adjusted outcomes and processes of care indicators. The secondary objectives encompass economic and psychosocial impact assessments of innovative technologies and treatment pathways. The multicenter design ensures a diverse and representative study population. The evolving landscape of NSCLC treatment necessitates a nuanced approach with consideration of the dynamic shifts in therapeutic strategies. LUCENT strives to fill existing knowledge gaps by providing a platform for collecting and analyzing real-world data, emphasizing the importance of patient-reported outcomes in enhancing the understanding of the disease. By developing a web-based registry, the study not only facilitates efficient data collection but also addresses the limitations of traditional methods, such as suboptimal response rates and costs associated with paper-and-pencil questionnaires. Recruitment will be conducted from January 01, 2024, to December 31, 2026. Follow-up will be performed for a minimum of 2 years. The study will be completed in the year 2028. LUCENT's potential implications are substantial. Establishing national benchmarks will enable a thorough evaluation of outcomes and care processes, guiding clinicians and policymakers in optimizing patient management. Furthermore, the study's secondary objectives, focusing on economic and psychosocial impacts, align with the contemporary emphasis on holistic cancer care. Insights gained from this study may influence treatment strategies, resource utilization, and patient well-being, thereby contributing to the ongoing refinement of lung cancer management. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05851755; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05851755. ISRCTN 67197140; https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN67197140. PRR1-10.2196/57183.

Environmental impact assessment of alternative technologies for production of biofuels from spent coffee grounds

AbstractIn the strategy to combat climate change that has been caused by the world's overdependence on fossil fuels, current research is focusing on the decarbonisation of the energy sector through the production of renewable cleaner energy, such as biofuels. Spent coffee grounds (SCGs), the waste stream of the coffee brewing industry, are a potential feedstock for the production of valuable products, including biofuels. However, the environmental implications for the valorisation of this valuable waste need to be investigated. This study assesses the environmental impacts of six biomass‐to‐fuel processing technologies using SCGs as a feedstock, with the aim of identifying the most environmentally friendly technology. A cradle‐to‐gate life‐cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted on fast pyrolysis, fermentation, anaerobic digestion (AD), hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL), gasification, and biodiesel production. The mass and energy balances obtained from Aspen Plus simulations served as the life‐cycle inventory data. Using the ReCiPe 2016 midpoint (H) and Eco‐Indicator 99 as the assessment methods, potential environmental impacts were calculated in OpenLCA software. Electricity generation and carbon dioxide emissions were the biggest contributors of environmental impacts. For each category, the maximum result was set to 100% and the results of the other variants were displayed in relation to this result. AD, with the smallest total weighted score (160), was the most environmentally friendly biomass‐to‐fuel processing route, while HTL, with the biggest total weighted score (893), was the worst. A sensitivity analysis indicated that the environmental performance of biofuel production from SCGs was highly influenced by energy input flows and the source of energy generation.

Thermodynamics of Combustion and Environmental Impacts of Industrial Fuels: A Comparative Study

This study examines the combustion processes of different fuel types such as benzene, butane, ethane, hydrogen, methane, and propane, and evaluates the thermodynamic effects of these processes, as well as their impact on the quantity of gases emitted into the atmosphere. The findings reveal that each fuel type differs in terms of combustion efficiency, heat release, and emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere. These analyses yield important implications for energy production, industrial applications, and environmental policies. Future studies could focus on more in-depth comparative analyses of fuels, assessment of advanced combustion technologies, and dynamic modeling of combustion processes, thereby facilitating the development of strategies for more sustainable fuel usage and reduction of environmental impacts.

Life cycle assessment and cost analysis of innovative agar extraction technologies from red seaweeds

Developing efficient and sustainable extraction technologies for valuable biocompounds from seaweed is crucial to overcome the limitations of conventional technologies. This study aims to compare three innovative technologies for agar extraction from two red seaweed species, G. sesquipedale and G. vermiculophylla: subcritical water extraction (performed at 125 °C, 2.5 atm, 1 min, and at 140 °C, 3.8 atm, 1 s), moderate electric fields (applied at 85 °C for 120 min and 95 °C for 180 min), and a combination of both methods. The comparison used life cycle assessment and life cycle costing methodologies, considering a gate-to-gate approach. The combined technology demonstrated the lowest energy consumption, with 67 MJ/kgagar for G. vermiculophylla and 100 MJ/kgagar for G. sesquipedale. A carbon footprint reduction of up to 94 % was obtained when compared to the control, with 15.9 kgCO2 eq. /kgagar for G. vermiculophylla and 20.4 kgCO2 eq. /kgagar for G. sesquipedale. Using photovoltaic panels as alternative energy further cut carbon emissions by 50 %. The cost analysis showed that the combined technology was the most cost-effective extraction method.

Promoting the use of geopolymer and alkali-activated materials through the identification of critical factors and strategies

Geopolymers (GP) and alkali-activated materials (AAMs) technology are emerging as eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to traditional binders like Ordinary Portland cement (OPC), offering significant environmental benefits. Despite more than four decades of research and development, the commercial exploitation of GP and AAMs remains unrealised. In an attempt from this research paper to identify key success factors and limitations of this technology and propose strategies to exploit the available opportunities and address significant challenges hindering the widespread adoption of GP and AAMs in the global green construction market. The following comprehensive approach was undertaken to achieve the aforementioned objectives, this involved a thorough critical literature review and the formulation of a triple SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) - Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) - TOWS hybrid analysis. The results demonstrate that GP and AAMs are promising materials highlighting strengths derived from their remarkable performance and durability properties, as well as the potential opportunities for GP and AAMs to reduce the environmental impact by using by-products, particularly local ones “zero-kilometre”, aligns with the objectives of sustainability and the circular economy, compared to conventional materials. However, the findings confirm experts’ positive assessments of GP and AAMs technology, several barriers that could critically threaten their development and implementation. These barriers include the absence of standards, design complexity, feasibility and performance of the final product dependent on variation factors, and handling difficulties. Finally, a set of strategies has been established to implement GP and AAMs by encouraging adoption through the implementation of a regulatory framework supported by the government. These strategies include developing local codes and test methods, providing economic incentives, fostering cooperative research globally, and organizing awareness campaigns. This article will help to provide a solid foundation for future research aimed at resolving controversial issues related to the implementation of GP and AAMs technology and promoting a positive perception of GP and AAMs among all stakeholders and decision-makers.

Patent mining and diversity assessment of nuclear power technologies

Nuclear power technology is one of the pivotal avenues for ensuring a clean global energy transition. Bolstering technological diversity is critical for the sustainable advancement of nuclear power worldwide. However, a gap exists in investigating the trends and diversification of nuclear power technology over the past decade. This study proposes a data-driven integrated approach, leveraging descriptive statistics, co-occurrence analysis, network analysis, and multi-criteria decision-making methods to delve into the patent development, research and development (R&D) landscapes, and international layouts of nuclear power technology. Furthermore, the diversity of nuclear power technology globally and specifically within China is assessed. The findings unveil a substantial surge in nuclear power technology patents since 2020, with China, Japan, and Korea emerging as prominent R&D hubs. The R&D efforts in nuclear power technology predominantly concentrate on the design of nuclear reactor structures and cooling systems. Europe and the United States occupy significant positions within the nuclear power technology patent network. While China's nuclear power technology diversity slightly lags the global average, it has demonstrated a marginal lead since 2021. This study offers a comprehensive decision-support tool for trend analysis and diversity assessment in nuclear power technology.