Technological Issues Research Articles

Virtual Reality Simulation as a Tool for ENT Training: An Autoethnographic Study.

To investigate the factors influencing a novice trainee's surgical skill acquisition using virtual reality (VR) temporal bone (TB) drilling simulation as a training tool. This study is the first application of autoethnography in the surgical simulation literature. This study uses autoethnography to examine the factors underpinning simulated surgical skill acquisition using VR TB drilling (ethnography) through systematically documenting and analyzing the researcher's reflections over a prolonged period of time (autobiography). The primary researcher undertook 16 3-hour sessions learning to perform a virtual cortical mastoidectomy on the Voxel-Man TempoSurg (VMT) simulator over 8 months. Data collected comprised qualitative field notes and reflective journal logs, and quantitative scores from formative assessments. Data were coded using NVivo12 and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. University Hospitals Birmingham ENT Simulation Dry Lab, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, United Kingdom. The primary researcher, a surgical novice, was responsible for the study design and execution, with supervision from a consultant ENT surgeon and 2 simulation fellows. The study yielded 6 themes: About 3 themes highlight new insights: 1) VMT as a surgical learning tool, 2) overcoming technological issues, 3) and physical impacts of simulated surgery; About 3 themes support existing evidence relating to surgical skill acquisition: 4) rushing leading to inaccuracy, 5) reflections and feedback, and 6) overcoming demotivation. The application of autoethnography to the study of surgical skill acquisition is new. Our results enable a deeper insight into surgical skill acquisition using VR TB simulation, with 6 specific themes identified as impacting learning with this tool. An understanding of these factors will facilitate future research in this area, and enable constructive adjustments to the learning experience, ultimately improving training program delivery and outcomes going forward.

Integrating Fiber Broadband and 5G Network: Synergies and Challenges

The integration of fiber broadband and 5G networks represents a significant leap forward in telecommunications, promising to revolutionize connectivity and enable a plethora of advanced applications. This research paper delves into the synergy between fiber broadband and 5G, examining the technological, economic, and societal impacts of this convergence. By leveraging the high bandwidth and low latency of fiber optics alongside the ultra-fast wireless capabilities of 5G, this integration offers unprecedented network performance and reliability.[1] We explore the key components that make this integration possible, including the deployment of fiber optic infrastructure, the utilization of 5G technology, and the role of edge computing in reducing latency. The paper highlights the numerous benefits of fiber-5G integration, such as enhanced connectivity, increased network reliability, and support for emerging technologies like IoT and smart cities.[2] However, the integration also presents several challenges, including the high costs and logistical complexities of infrastructure deployment, technological compatibility issues, and security concerns. Through detailed case studies, we illustrate real-world implementations of fiber-5G integration, showcasing the practical benefits and solutions to these challenges.[3] Looking ahead, the paper discusses future prospects for fiber-5G integration, emphasizing the potential of AI-driven network management, advanced edge computing, and network slicing to further enhance network capabilities. Ultimately, this research underscores the transformative potential of fiber broadband and 5G integration in shaping the future of telecommunications and driving innovation across various sectors. Keywords: Fiber Optics, 5G, Network Integration, Fiber- Wireless convergence, Edge Computing

Ultrasonic guided wave detection of point rail damage of high-speed railway turnout

The precise and efficient identification of damage in point rails of turnouts represents a critical and challenging technological issue that requires immediate attention. Guided wave inspection, as a non-destructive testing method, holds significant potential for practical applications in the research field focused on the identification of damage in point rails of high-speed railway turnouts. This study integrates rigorous theoretical analysis, advanced numerical simulation techniques, and meticulous experimental investigations to comprehensively investigate the excitation, propagation, and reception processes of ultrasonic-guided waves within the point rail. By strategically applying excitation signals at optimized positions specifically tailored for point rail detection, employing a frequency of 30 kHz, appropriate excitation modes are carefully selected. Defect identification within the extended point rail is performed from a dual perspective, encompassing both cross-correlation analysis and time-frequency analysis. The obtained results substantiate that when employing the cross-correlation coefficient to detect cracks in the elongated point rail, the sensitivity of crack detection is significantly higher in the rail bottom region as opposed to the rail head region. Furthermore, through the analysis of variations in the cross-correlation coefficient and the application of wavelet transformations to the guided wave signals, it is not only feasible to ascertain the presence and location of damages within the rail base region of the extended point rail but also to evaluate the relative size of the cracks. The findings of this research contribute a robust theoretical foundation for the subsequent analysis and evaluation of damage detection in high-speed turnout point rails.

Novel Use of a Simulation in Pediatric Type 1 Diabetes Sick-Day Education for Patients and Caregivers

OBJECTIVE Management of type 1 diabetes during illness confers risk for serious harm because sick days happen infrequently, management is complex and multistep, and errors can result in diabetic ketoacidosis and hospitalization. Simulation offers a safe, experiential learning environment in which to practice skills with the goal of identifying and closing knowledge gaps. We hypothesized that simulation of sick-day scenarios with patients and caregivers via video conference could be used to assess knowledge of sick-day management for type 1 diabetes and determine the availability of necessary supplies at home. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Our study included development of performance-based, scripted sick-day scenarios; selection and training of content experts as simulation facilitators; piloting and iterative revision of scenarios; and implementation of simulation sessions. Five distinct scenarios were created for either insulin injections or continuous insulin pump therapy. Each participant was block randomized to receive three of the five scenarios. Participant performance was measured by categorizing actions as most desired, less desired, or incorrect. RESULTS Ten caregivers and two young adults with type 1 diabetes participated in 12 simulations, representing 14 individuals with type 1 diabetes. The most common category of less desired and incorrect processes chosen by participants was ketone management. CONCLUSION Simulation-based training for sick-day management is a feasible, interactive form of education for people with type 1 diabetes and caregivers. Video conferences allowed firsthand observation of supplies and resources available to families at home. Participant understanding of sick-day management will inform future interventions to address challenges with ketone management and recognition of diabetes technology issues when caring for an ill child with type 1 diabetes.

Ambulance Services

Abstract—This paper aims at identifying the role of lucky EMS comes at the right time to save lives due to its fast flow of events in today’s world. The services involve transporting client or clients to other relative facilities for diagnosis, stabilization or further treatment after receiving an emergency call. Although, various parts of the world are experiencing the challenge of delivering ambulances as fast as possible within the shortest time possible; situations that often come with terrible results. The advancement in mobile technology is a chance to improve the ambulance service by presenting one with an easier way to call for help. As the world goes mobile, installing an ambulance services app is a way of closing the gap between the two parties and ensuring that they get help as early as possible. In today’s ever increasing busy lives, quick response to the need of emergency medical services becomes very important in saving lives. Emergency ambulance services form the vital link of any health care delivery system since they bring timely medical care to patients who require urgent care. But then again, many parts of the world still have to struggle to get their ambulances to respond within the shortest time possible, a factor usually associated with so many fatalities. In this case the issue of mobile technology presents a way to improve the ambulance services by easing the process involved in the call for help. By the help of a smartphone an application for ambulance services will create a link between the user and the facilitating ambulances thereby helping to reduce the response time and hence briefing the communication gap between the users and the required emergency response.

Digital Teaching Practices and Student Academic Stress in the Era of Digitalization in Higher Education

ICT and digitization are transforming higher education, but one aspect that has been little addressed is student academic stress in this context. The objective of this research was to explore the relationship between teaching practices and academic stress in virtual learning environments. A quantitative study based on structural equation modeling was conducted using 6605 students from a public university in Lima. Two scales were applied and validated to assess specific dimensions of teaching practices and levels of academic stress. The scales demonstrated robust psychometric properties. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis allowed the identification of key underlying factors and the validation of the proposed theoretical model. Findings reveal indirect negative influences between teaching practices and academic stress. External factors like overload, distractions, and technological issues disrupt teacher interaction, collaboration, and learning processes. Model fit indices confirm its robustness, emphasizing the need to optimize resources and improve virtual education environments. ICT in education enhances accessibility and personalization but demands addressing academic stress and optimizing virtual learning environments. Future research is called for to delve deeper into the integration of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence and virtual reality, as well as mindfulness, digital skills, and mobile self-efficacy, to comprehensively address stress and student well-being.

2788 Exercise trainers as key enablers in the remote delivery of dementia prevention interventions in the homes of older adults

Abstract Introduction Social support for physical activity is important for engaging older adults in physically active lifestyles. Few studies examined the impact of individual exercise trainers (IETs) in the context of dementia prevention interventions with physical activity. We aimed to assess the contributions of IETs in the remote delivery of a home-based dementia prevention program combining physical exercise and cognitive training targeting older adults at risk for dementia. Methods Convergent mixed-method analysis was conducted using data from SYNERGIC@Home, a feasibility study of a 16-week intervention that included one-on-one supervised physical exercise (3 sessions/week) fully delivered through Zoom. Quantitative data consisted of descriptive statistics, measures of adherence, participants’ preference and satisfaction. Qualitative interviews centred on participants’ experience and motivation were conducted post-intervention. Results Of the 60 participants randomised to one of four intervention arms (mean age 68.9, 76.7% female), 52 completed the interventions with high overall adherence (87.5%). Pre-intervention, participants expressed a clear preference for cognitive interventions, but post-intervention preference shifted to exercise. IETs (n = 21) were part-time research assistants, each assigned to one participant after completing CSEP Certified Personal Trainer® or Clinical Exercise Physiologist™ certification as part of their training. One full-time Lead IET coordinated and supervised the other trainers. IETs worked the closest with study participants, also working closely with study coordinator and with study physician for adverse event monitoring. Interviewed participants (n = 15) often described the positive relationships that developed with their IET. Trainers were instrumental in participants’ motivation and enjoyment, personalising the sessions and addressing technological issues. Satisfaction rates with IETs (n = 54 exit survey respondents) were high. Conclusions Exercise trainers played crucial roles that extended beyond the supervision of exercise sessions and contributed to participant engagement in the interventions. Access to these allied health professionals should be featured more prominently in strategies/programs promoting active lifestyles among older adults.

Research on Intelligent Optimization of Wellbore Trajectory in Complex Formation

Borehole trajectory optimization is a key issue in oil and gas drilling engineering. The traditional wellbore trajectory design method faces great challenges in optimizing the trajectory length and complexity, and it is difficult to meet the actual engineering requirements. In this paper, the three-stage wellbore trajectory optimization problem is studied, and a multi-objective optimization model including two objective functions of trajectory length and trajectory complexity is constructed. In this paper, an improved multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm is proposed, which combines the clustering strategy to improve the diversity of solutions, and enhances the local search ability and global convergence performance of the algorithm through the elite learning strategy. In order to verify the performance of the algorithm, comparative experiments were carried out using classical multi-objective benchmark functions. The results showed that the improved algorithm is superior to the traditional method in terms of diversity and convergence of solutions. Finally, the proposed algorithm was applied to the actual three-stage wellbore trajectory optimization problem. In summary, the research results of this paper provide theoretical support and engineering practice methods for wellbore trajectory optimization, and serve as an important reference for further improving the efficiency and quality of wellbore trajectory design.

Energy-Efficient Insulating Geopolymer Foams with the Addition of Phase Change Materials.

This study assessed the impact of the addition of phase change materials (PCMs) under the trade name Micronal 28S on the properties of the manufactured geopolymer foams. Micronal 28S is used as a functional component in foams (insulation materials), foamed building materials, and materials for temperature regulation to improve thermal comfort and indoor climate. The melting point of Micronal 28S is 28 ± 2 °C, and the heat of fusion is ∼140 J/g. As part of the research, geopolymer mixtures containing PCMs in the form of a slurry were prepared in shares of 0, 5, 10, and 15 wt %. Geopolymers were produced based on fly ash. The foaming process was carried out using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Physical, mechanical, and thermal properties and analysis of the microscopic microstructure were evaluated. The introduction of Micronal 28S into the geopolymer matrix is conducive to obtaining ultralight foams with a density of about 200 kg/m3. As the share of the PCM increases, the thermal insulating properties of the samples increase by reaching a thermal conductivity coefficient λ of 0.057 W/m*K. Simultaneously, the specific heat increases up to 1.105 kJ/kg*K. Microstructure analysis confirmed that Micronal 28S tends to agglomerate and decrease pore size. The phase change material reduces the mechanical properties of the geopolymers. However, according to the EN 998-1 standard, the conditions for the requirements to be realized by insulating materials used in construction were met by a reference sample and one containing 5 wt % of Micronal 28S. The content in this publication addresses issues in both materials science and mechanical engineering. Although other authors have conducted research using various phase change materials, this work is the first to use PCMs with the trade name Micronal 28S to produce geopolymer foams with excellent thermal insulation properties.

Elucidating Mesostructural Effects on Thermal Conductivity for Enhanced Insulation Applications.

Thermal management is a key link in improving energy utilization and preparing insulation materials with excellent performance is the core technological issue. Complex and irregular pore structures of insulation materials hinder the exploration of structure-property relationships and the further promotion of material performance. Ordered mesoporous silica (OMS) is a kind of porous material with ordered frameworks. This work elucidates the effects of ordered porous architecture on the thermal conductivity of mesoporous silica. Herein, two typical OMS, SBA-15 and SBA-16, characterized by well-defined porous structures with distinct spatial orientations are synthesized to study the relevance between structure and thermal conductivity. Compared to the 3D cubic mesoporous structure of SBA-16, the 2D hexagonal structure of SBA-15 exhibits anisotropic effects that restrict both solid and gaseous conduction, thereby providing better thermal insulating. Due to the influence of porosity, the thermal conductivity is found to decrease strongly with increasing pore size and decreasing wall thickness. Moreover, OMS composite aerogels with outstanding thermal insulation, mechanical performance, and hydrophobicity are fabricated through incorporating OMS into cellulose nanofibers (CNF). Consequently, this work contributes to a deeper understanding of heat transfer in OMS and provides an idea for designing OMS-based composite materials, thereby advancing their potential applications.

Changing food waste regimes in Africa’s transition to export-oriented production: the case of Tanzanian avocado

Abstract African nations are increasingly focusing on exporting high-value crops. However, a major challenge exists: high rates of food waste within supply chains. The problem is often seen as a technological issue—a lack of proper infrastructure and coordination creates inefficiencies. This research takes a different perspective, focusing on social relations within the supply chain. It uses the concept of “food waste regimes” to understand the underlying structures, relationships, and systems that cause food waste, with a focus on Tanzania’s avocado trade. The goals of the research are to: (1) Identify the factors contributing to food waste within Tanzania’s avocado supply chains, particularly in the context of export-oriented production; (2) Explore how these factors change as production shifts towards exports; (3) Analyse the fairness (equity) of how waste burdens are distributed among those involved. We adopted a “follow the thing” approach, combining interviews and observations across both domestic and export avocado supply chains in Tanzania. The research reveals that interactions between various aspects of the supply chain—practices, physical properties of the product (avocado perishability), and established institutions—influence where food waste occurs and who shoulders the burden of that waste. The research exposes how unequal power dynamics between participants lead to some actors bearing a disproportionate amount of the risk and cost of food waste. By taking a social relations approach, this research highlights that tackling food waste and social inequality are intertwined issues. The paper suggests potential areas for future research and intervention to address these interconnected challenges.

Conclusion: what is the transformative relationship between tourism and technology?

PurposeThe thematic issue purposed explored the transformative relationship between tourism and technology from various perspectives.Design/methodology/approachThe thematic issue presents various methodologies that examine each topic. Each topic deals with an important issue of tourism and technology and provides an in-depth understanding of the interrelationship.FindingsThe integration of technology in the tourism sector has significantly transformed several aspects, including customer and supplier behaviour, business operations, destination assessment, safety and education. Emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, are reshaping the tourism industry by creating new opportunities for innovation and engagement. The industry’s primary challenge is to utilize these technologies wisely, ensuring they do not replace the concept of hospitality or the exceptional services that humans can offer.Originality/valueBy providing diverse methodologies and perspectives, it highlights the multifaceted nature of the relationship between tourism and technology, thereby contributing original insights into how digital innovations are influencing traveller behaviours, destination marketing and operational efficiencies in the sector. The inclusion of case studies and empirical research enriches the discourse, enabling stakeholders such as policymakers, practitioners and researchers to better understand the implications of this transformative relationship and to adopt strategies that force technological advancements for sustainable tourism development.

An extension of Trust and TAM model with TPB in the adoption of digital payment: An empirical study in Vietnam

Background Digital payment systems are pivotal in the digital economy, relying on the interplay between internet technology and e-vendors. This study seeks to explore acceptance behaviors regarding digital payments by employing an extended version of the Trust and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and incorporating the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Methods We conducted a qualitative analysis using interview data from 509 respondents and applied Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to evaluate the relationships between key variables. The extended model allows for a comprehensive examination of both technological and trust-related factors influencing adoption. Results Our analysis revealed that all standardized path coefficients were positively significant, except for the path from perceived usefulness (PU) to attitude (ATT). The findings confirm that while digital payments are primarily driven by Internet and communication technologies, addressing trust-related issues is essential for enhancing user adoption. The TAM identifies perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, alongside trust, as critical factors affecting behavioral intention. In the TPB framework, trust significantly impacts digital payment adoption through mediators such as attitude, perceived behavioral control, and subjective norm. Conclusions This study enhances our understanding of the factors influencing digital payment adoption, emphasizing the need to address both technological and trust issues. The insights gained provide valuable recommendations for increasing the use of digital payment systems, particularly in the Northern mountainous regions of Vietnam, thereby fostering greater financial inclusion and economic growth.

Numerical approximation of space-fractional diffusion equation using Laguerre spectral collocation method

The space-fractional diffusion equation is extensively used to model various issues in engineering and mathematics. This paper addresses the numerical approximation of the space-fractional-order diffusion equation, using a fractional operator in the Caputo sense. The proposed equation is computed numerically through the Laguerre spectral collocation method combined with the finite difference scheme. The results were visualized using MATLAB R2016a, and the accuracy of the numerical scheme was validated by comparing the approximate results with those derived from exact values and the Legendre spectral collocation technique. The originality of this study lies in the application of the Laguerre spectral collocation method for fractional-order diffusion equations in the Caputo sense. Two numerical problems were included to demonstrate the validity and applicability of the proposed technique. The obtained results confirm that this method aligns well with the exact values and the Legendre spectral collocation method, as shown in tabular and graphical simulations.

The Interplay Between Anxiety and Comprehension in EFL Digital Reading Contexts

This study explores the impact of digital reading anxiety on the reading comprehension of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. While it is established that reading anxiety can impede EFL learners' comprehension—especially when using digital devices—there is limited research on this issue's extent. To fill this gap, the study assessed 152 first-year university EFL students. Participants completed a background questionnaire, a reading comprehension test that included literal, inferential, and evaluative comprehension levels, and a digital reading anxiety scale specifically designed for EFL learners. This scale measured digital reading anxiety across seven dimensions: cognitive challenges, emotional responses, technological issues, physical discomforts, language-related anxiety, confidence, and task management. The results revealed that students generally experience moderate anxiety when reading on digital devices. Notably, students with stronger comprehension skills reported lower levels of digital reading anxiety, particularly in relation to inferential comprehension. However, no significant relationship was found between evaluative comprehension and anxiety. An independent samples t-test demonstrated that students with higher comprehension scores experienced significantly lower digital reading anxiety compared to those with lower scores. These findings provide valuable insights into the role of digital devices in EFL reading instruction and suggest that addressing anxiety may enhance reading comprehension outcomes.

Practical Work of Three-Phased Induction Motor Modeling in a Classical Spreadsheet Software

Remote teaching has been becoming increasingly important in higher education since the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, fast and precise modeling of the main operating values of industrial systems is a key point for production and efficiency calculation. After a review of the main modeling equations of an induction motor, this paper proposes to include them in spreadsheet software in the form of practical work so that readers will improve their level in multiple competency fields, such as data processing, the use of spreadsheet software, deepening understanding of induction motors, classical induction motor testing, and modeling and the use of the models to solve classical electrical engineering issues. Furthermore, the fact that this work was designed to be conducted autonomously and asynchronously gives readers the feeling of freedom, which is very useful for developing their desire to progress by their own means and to do their utmost to succeed in their task. Finally, the provided Excel file, which includes an initial spreadsheet with gaps, allows readers to familiarize themselves with the concepts, experiment with them, and extend the base file to their own topics of interest. This work can serve as a proof of the readers’ ability to succeed in industrial modeling tasks and aid in their employment prospects.

Steering Innovation: Leadership's Role in Tech Companies

It is necessary to have effective leaders in determining the enclosure of new products in technology organizations because of increased competition. This is why leaders also have the major responsibility of fostering organizational creativeness and flexibility. They contribute towards innovation by implementing the policies that encourage teamwork, support taken of risks in new ideas and ensure resources are placed in a way that supports innovation. The present paper explores the crucial roles of leadership in managing technological development issues, and possibly nurturing innovations. Some of the issues discussed include the delegation of authority to teams, cross functional integration and sustaining mechanisms which provide organizations with long term direction. Drawing from examples of tech leaders, the paper demonstrates how these leaders have influenced change and the need to be forward-looking. Keywords Leadership and Innovation, Adaptive Strategies, Product Innovation Strategies, Innovation in Tech Companies, Leadership in Technology, Driving Innovation, Innovation Leadership Roles, Creative Leadership in Tech.

Tap into practical AI tools to enhance engagement, success

Artificial intelligence is no longer just something you see in science fiction movies. On college campuses today, AI is driving innovation and transforming the expe rience for students and higher education administrators. According to the “2024 NASPA Top Issues in Student Affairs” report, 90% of respondents indicated that AI is an important issue in technology and innovation in our work in student affairs.

Pharmacy students' perspective on remote flipped classrooms in Malaysia: a qualitative study.

This study aimed to explore pharmacy students' perceptions of remote flipped classrooms in Malaysia, focusing on their learning experiences and identifying areas for potential improvement to inform future educational strategies. A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing inductive thematic analysis. Twenty Bachelor of Pharmacy students (18 women, 2 men; age range, 19-24 years) from Monash University participated in 8 focus group discussions over 2 rounds during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic (2020-2021). Participants were recruited via convenience sampling. The focus group discussions, led by experienced academics, were conducted in English via Zoom, recorded, and transcribed for analysis using NVivo. Themes were identified through emergent coding and iterative discussions to ensure thematic saturation. Five major themes emerged: flexibility, communication, technological challenges, skill-based learning challenges, and time-based effects. Students appreciated the flexibility of accessing and reviewing pre-class materials at their convenience. Increased engagement through anonymous question submission was noted, yet communication difficulties and lack of non-verbal cues in remote workshops were significant drawbacks. Technological issues, such as internet connectivity problems, hindered learning, especially during assessments. Skill-based learning faced challenges in remote settings, including lab activities and clinical examinations. Additionally, prolonged remote learning led to feelings of isolation, fatigue, and a desire to return to in-person interactions. Remote flipped classrooms offer flexibility and engagement benefits but present notable challenges related to communication, technology, and skill-based learning. To improve remote education, institutions should integrate robust technological support, enhance communication strategies, and incorporate virtual simulations for practical skills. Balancing asynchronous and synchronous methods while addressing academic success and socioemotional wellness is essential for effective remote learning environments.

Complex Rock Mechanics Problems and Risk Prevention Solutions

The emergence of rock mechanics was driven by the need to address stability issues in rock engineering and to examine conditions leading to rock failure [...]