Practical Technology Research Articles

Digital Equity and School Leadership in a Post-Digital World

Purpose This study analyzes digital equity realities in U.S. K-12 schools and the role that school leadership plays in digital equity. Design/Approach/Methods Based on Selwyn’s conception of technology as three interlocking elements (access, educational practices, and social context), we applied the ideals of equity and social justice to each of the three elements to conceptualize a framework of digital equity, situating school practice in the larger social, cultural, and political context of the United States. Guided by this framework, we conducted a systematic literature review of the current state of digital equity and school leadership in K-12 schools. Findings The findings demonstrate that U.S. K-12 schools face digital inequity issues, including inequitable access to technology, exclusionary and punitive educational practices using technology, and an unjust social context for technology in schools. These findings indicate that school leadership plays an important role in digital inequity. Originality/Value Based on these findings, we present a framework to assist K-12 leaders in enhancing digital equity, including addressing educational inequities and creating an inclusive social context for the school, ensuring equitable accessibility to technology in schools, and supporting teachers in developing meaningful and equitable practices using technology to address the opportunity gaps encountered by marginalized learners.

Effect of Pile Thread Spacing on the Friction Resistance of Minipile

This study aims to determine the most effective type of pile foundation between threaded sleeve piles with a 10 cm spacing and threaded pile piles with a 20 cm spacing, focusing on their frictional bearing capacity. Test specimens were prepared using reinforced concrete with a compressive strength of K-350 kg/cm2, reinforced with 4D10 mm longitudinal bars and Ø8-150 mm stirrups. Measurements of pile settlements were taken over several days to assess their behavior under load. Results indicated that piles with a 10 cm thread spacing exhibited a settlement of 3.7 mm on the first day, while those with a 20 cm spacing settled by 4.2 mm, with a percentage difference of 29.6%. The study concludes that rougher surfaces (tighter threads) yield greater frictional forces, thereby enhancing pile bearing capacity. Additionally, settlements tended to stabilize over time, with piles at 20 cm spacing experiencing a quicker cessation of settlement compared to those at 10 cm spacing. This research provides valuable insights for foundation engineering, material technology, and concrete construction practices. It also offers practical implications for the pile manufacturing industry.

Enhancing access to digital justice: digital governance of dispute resolution and dispute prevention in online commercial activities

Abstract This article examines relevant theories and practices concerning the strengthening of access to digital justice and explores pathways to expanding the application of online dispute resolution (ODR) to dispute prevention in online commercial activities. It focuses on how to enhance both efficiency and fairness in four stages of commercial activities, namely, deal-making (contract formation), contract performance, dispute resolution, and the enforcement of final results. At the deal-making stage, the application of e-signatures is analysed with respect to the prevention of compliance and security risks. The best practices of smart contracts and blockchain technology are also investigated to promote relevant innovative designs in the digital governance of online contract performance. In addition, top-down and bottom-up ODR platforms are compared in terms of their respective patterns for enhancing efficiency and fairness, as well as their differing potential for institutionalization. Finally, existing ODR self-enforcement models are explored, with emphasis on the ‘preauthorization’ model and the example of Taobao.

Comprehensive genomic and plasmid characterization of multidrug-resistant bacterial strains by R10.4.1 nanopore sequencing

The escalating prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria pose a significant public health threat. Understanding the genomic features and deciphering the antibiotic resistance profiles of these pathogens is crucial for development of effective surveillance and treatment strategies. In this study, we employed the R10.4.1 nanopore sequencing technology, specifically through the use of the MinION platform, to analyze eight MDR bacterial strains originating from clinical, ecological and food sources. A single 72-hour sequencing run could yield approximately 12 million reads which covered a total of 34 gigabases (Gbp). The nanopore R10.4.1 data was processed using the Flye assembler, successfully assembling the genomes of eight bacterial strains and their 18 plasmids. Notably, the assemblies generated solely from R10.4.1 nanopore data closely matched those from next-generation sequencing data. Diverse antibiotic resistance patterns and specific resistance genes in the test strains were identified. Hospital strains that exhibited multidrug resistance were found to harbor various resistance genes that encode efflux pumps and extended-spectrum β-lactamases. Environmental and food sources were found to display resistance profiles in a species-specific manner. The composition of structurally complex plasmids in the test strains could also be revealed by analysis of nanopore long reads, which also suggested evidence of horizontal transfer of plasmids between different bacterial species. These findings provide valuable insights into the genetic characteristics of MDR bacteria and demonstrating the practicality of nanopore sequencing technology for detecting of resistance elements in bacterial pathogens.

Human resources challenges in global health organizations: Managing a diverse and dispersed workforce

In the dynamic landscape of global health organizations, Human Resources (HR) faces unique challenges in managing a diverse and dispersed workforce. This review explores the multifaceted issues that HR professionals encounter while navigating the intricacies of global health settings. One of the foremost challenges is the diversity inherent in the workforce of global health organizations. These entities often bring together professionals from diverse cultural, educational, and professional backgrounds, creating a melting pot of perspectives and approaches. HR must devise strategies to foster inclusivity, address cultural differences, and promote effective communication to harness the collective strength of this diverse talent pool. Furthermore, the dispersed nature of global health organizations presents a logistical challenge for HR management. With teams spread across different geographic locations, time zones, and cultural contexts, coordinating and integrating human resources practices becomes inherently complex. Virtual collaboration tools and innovative communication strategies become imperative to bridge the geographical gaps and create a cohesive organizational culture. Managing talent retention and development in such a context becomes crucial. HR professionals need to design policies and programs that cater to the professional growth and well-being of employees regardless of their physical location. This involves implementing virtual training programs, mentorship initiatives, and performance evaluation systems that transcend geographical boundaries. Moreover, compliance with local and international labor laws adds another layer of complexity to HR management in global health organizations. Navigating the legal landscape and ensuring adherence to diverse regulatory frameworks require a nuanced approach and continuous monitoring. Human Resources faces a myriad of challenges in global health organizations, from fostering diversity and inclusion to navigating the complexities of a dispersed workforce. Successfully addressing these challenges demands a strategic and adaptive HR approach, leveraging technology, cultural sensitivity, and innovative practices to create a unified and thriving global health workforce.

Sustainable IT practices in Nigerian banking: Environmental perspectives review

This review paper aims to critically analyze sustainable information technology (IT) practices in the Nigerian banking sector, focusing on environmental perspectives. The primary objective is to identify and evaluate the extent to which Nigerian banks have integrated sustainable IT practices and the impact of these practices on environmental sustainability. The methodology involves a comprehensive review of existing literature, including academic journals, industry reports, and case studies, to gather insights into the current state of sustainable IT in Nigerian banking. Key findings reveal that while some Nigerian banks have begun to adopt green IT initiatives, such as paperless operations, energy-efficient data centers, and electronic banking services, the overall adoption rate is relatively low compared to global standards. The study identifies barriers to adoption, including lack of awareness, limited regulatory frameworks, and inadequate infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the paper highlights the potential benefits of sustainable IT practices, such as reduced carbon footprint, operational cost savings, and enhanced corporate reputation. The paper concludes that for Nigerian banks to fully embrace sustainable IT practices, there needs to be a concerted effort involving policy formulation, awareness campaigns, and investment in green technologies. It recommends that stakeholders, including government, regulatory bodies, and the banks themselves, collaborate to create an enabling environment for sustainable IT. This review contributes to the understanding of sustainable IT in the Nigerian banking sector and provides a foundation for future research and policy development in this area.

Evaluating the Adoption of Cleaner Production Technology for Sustainable Green Hotels in the Philippines

With the increasing trend of waste production in the hotel industry, a turn to green waste management would greatly alleviate costs and carbon footprint. Although policies are being updated to accommodate the transition to eco-friendlier management, there is little literature about technologies used to reduce pollution. This study assessed the economic effectiveness and cost improvement of the hotel industry in Western Visayas using cleaner production technology practices. This study utilized a descriptive survey research approach. The 156 participants, which consisted of hotel owners, managers, and employees, were chosen using a stratified random sampling technique using G* power version 3.0. The statistical tools employed were frequency counts, percentages, rankings, averages, standard deviation, and one-way ANOVA. Results revealed that the top five cleaner production technology practices implemented that suggest sustainability were: “modify facilities/equipment”, “adequate proper control operations”, “improves facilities/equipment layout”, “provides training and incentive programs”, and “improves wastes segregation and storage”. The study shows no significant differences observed in the scope of practices for stars 3-5. On the contrary, there is a significant difference seen in the scope of 2-star hotel practices. The use of cleaner production technology and green practices has also decreased the hotel's use of energy, water, and solid waste management. Importantly, the cost of consumption in each hotel unit decreased. The findings of this study will enable hotels to adopt efficient waste sorting techniques, paving the way for a greener transition in the hospitality industry. By doing so, future research, projects, and policy implementations may be directed to a better tomorrow.

Research on Teaching Practice of English for Science and Technology Based on Multimedia Technology

The purpose of this paper is to study the practice of multimedia technology in the teaching of scientific and technical English. With the rapid development and popularisation of computer technology and the deepening of educational concepts, multimedia-assisted English teaching has become one of the most important foreign language teaching modes at present. This study firstly analyses the impact of multimedia technology on English teaching, secondly faces the advantages and challenges of multimedia technology in the teaching process, and finally explores the use and effect of multimedia technology in scientific and technological English teaching based on the data of the survey and research. The results of the study show that for college English teachers in colleges and universities, they should fully explore the advantages of multimedia technology in the process of using it and use it skillfully in teaching practice, which will have a positive effect on improving the quality of English teaching and deepening the reform of college English teaching.

Examining Innovation through Technology Management in Manufacturing Firms: Empirical Insights

In today’s interconnected global scene, the importance of technology management in defining the modern economy, especially within industrial businesses, cannot be overemphasized. These companies continually invest in and incorporate new technology, encouraging innovation in both product creation and manufacturing processes. This deliberate use of technology is a tried-and-true technique for increasing operational efficiency and effectiveness while also strengthening global competitiveness by managing the risks associated with changing market demands. This study delves deeply into the complex elements that influence innovation and technology management practices in manufacturing businesses, with a particular emphasis on the Ethiopian setting. Despite the global demand for innovation, Ethiopian manufacturing enterprises have struggled to build a notable reputation in their field for pioneering inventions. This paper includes the perspectives of scholars, industry experts, consultants, and direct involvement from manufacturing firms. A cross-sectional methodology is used to collect data from several stakeholders at a certain point in time. The Pareto chart’s analytical capabilities are used to condense meaningful findings, allowing for the discovery and prioritization of impediments to manufacturing innovation. The study’s findings highlight formidable barriers to innovation in manufacturing firms, including a lack of well-defined innovation strategies, an absence of innovative leadership, a scarcity of qualified and creative talent, limited access to innovation funding, and a general lack of awareness about technological advancements and innovative best practices. These insights provide a substantial contribution to expanding the innovation environment within industrial enterprises, increasing resilience and global competitiveness.

Book Review: Journalism, Technology and Cultural Practice: A History by Martin Conboy

Book Review: <i>Journalism, Technology and Cultural Practice: A History</i> by Martin Conboy

Virtual reality technology to enhance the publishing of science and technology journals construction path exploration

The application practice of virtual reality technology in enhanced publishing of sci-tech periodicals is explored by case analysis and comprehensive analysis with the introduction of virtual reality technology as forerunner to promote the innovation of mechanism of sci-tech periodicals. comprehensive analysis with the introduction of virtual reality technology as forerunner to promote the innovation of mechanism of sci-tech periodicals, and the extension of industry chain of Chinese academic periodicals and the upgrading of Chinese academic publications. periodicals, and the extension of industry chain of Chinese academic periodicals and the upgrading of platform intellectualization. The research on The research on the application of virtual reality technology in enhanced publishing of sci-tech journals is still in its infancy at home and abroad, and there are many The research on the application of virtual reality technology in enhanced publishing of sci-tech journals is still in its infancy at home and abroad, and there are many obstacles in the application of virtual reality technology. technology, and proposes that the construction of augmented publishing of scientific journals by virtual re ality technology should be carried out from three aspects: content production, operation and management. three aspects: content production, operation and communication, so as to realize the deep integration of virtual reality technology and scientific journals. The construction of augmented publishing of scientific journals by virtual ality technology should be carried out from three aspects: content production, operation and communication, so as to realize the deep integration of virtual reality technology and scientific journals.

Research and Practice of Computer Application Technology in Big Data Analysis

This article aims to discuss the application of computer application technology in the field of BD (big data) analysis and the challenges it faces, and put forward corresponding countermeasures. Firstly, this article introduces the definition, characteristics and theoretical basis of BD analysis. Then, the specific application of computer application technology in BD analysis is elaborated in detail. Through case analysis, the practical application effect and value of computer application technology in BD analysis are demonstrated. The research results show that computer application technology plays a vital role in BD analysis, which can improve the efficiency of data processing, the accuracy of analysis and the scientific decision-making. Moreover, the research also reveals the technical, methodological and practical challenges faced in the process of BD analysis. In view of these challenges, this article puts forward corresponding countermeasures and suggestions, including strengthening the construction of policies and regulations, promoting technological innovation and research and development, and promoting Industry-University-Research's cooperative cooperation. These countermeasures have certain guiding significance and practical value for promoting the development of BD analysis.

Artificial intelligence in construction industry

Purpose: The aim of this work is to study new trends in construction, their advantages and disadvantages, application of innovations, analysis of operability and efficiency of new technologies in the global construction industry.Methodology/approach: The literature review and systematization, study the expert opinion on open access resources, portals of private enthusiasts involved in seeking for ways to introduce and implement modern technologies in the construction industry.Research findings: The paper presents methods and conditions of using modern technologies in the world practice, disadvantages and advantages of technologies, the concept of artificial intelligence and its application in the construction industry.Value: The study of currently used modern technologies in the construction industry and their implementation in world practice.

CONCEPTUAL PREREQUISITES AND PRINCIPLES FOR CHANGING THE DESIGNATED PURPOSE OF INDUSTRIAL LAND OF TERRITORIAL COMMUNITIES

Developing territories in accordance with the principles of sustainable land development is easier and more effective together with the people who directly use these lands, as well as executive authorities, who, with the involvement of the public, know, understand, and implement changes. For reasonable and prompt decision-making on land issues, the territorial communities must have up-to-date information support with data about all land parcels and property within the boundaries of territorial community. Industrial lands deserve special attention, because due to their rational use, it is possible to achieve an increase revenue to local budgets. Today, the state of industrial lands in Ukraine is negatively affected by the presence of a significant number of industries that require modernization, including infrastructural transformations with the provision of further balanced consideration of the ecological component of the territories' sustainability. The purpose of the work is to substantiate the principles of determining and changing the target designation of industrial lands within the territorial communities to improve their functioning and ensure their competitiveness. The development of urban planning documentation is a mandatory prerequisite for changing the purpose of industrial land of the territorial community to another purpose and vice versa. Management of the development of territories today directly depends on the planning structure and functional zoning of settlements. The changes of legal acts should have been taken effect from July 2021, but inconsistencies were found in the legislation of Ukraine, which relate to the functional zones approved by the comprehensive spatial development plan of the territory of territorial communities, within which the change of purpose must take place. Due to the introduction of martial law in Ukraine, the pace of development of urban planning and land management documentation slowed down, and as a result, today there is no any approved comprehensive spatial development plan. That is, it has been 2 years since the changes came into effect, but the change of the land purpose is carried out according to the old procedure with the development of land management documentation. Taking into account the above-mentioned components, the authors identified three main prerequisites for changing the target purpose: 1. The needs of industrial enterprises in the context of modern economic challenges. Changes in technology and production practices may require adaptation of land use to ensure the efficient functioning and competitiveness of enterprises. 2. Integration of social aspects into the decision-making process. It is important to consider the impact of these changes on local communities and ensure citizen participation in the process of determining the future use of industrial land. 3. The need to settle environmental issues. The change of purpose must take into account the potential effects on the environment and natural resources. Based on the prerequisites described above, the authors developed the principles of industrial land transformation, which take into account the principles of sustainable development. By following the developed principles, stakeholders can guide the transformation of industrial land in a way that maximizes benefits, minimizes negative impacts and promotes sustainable development.

Development of Basic Geology Mobile Learning Based on Android Indonesia Geodiversity Area

Basic Geology is a prior knowledge that needs to be supported by a flexible learning environment through the use of mobile technology. Through the supports of mobile technology, students will gain freedom of access because they can be used anytime and anywhere. The progress and speed of technological development, the ease and practicality of using smartphone devices are the potential, opportunities and challenges for presenting mobile technology in learning. The presence of generation Z who are already familiar with technology has reinforced the need to utilize technology to accommodate them in learning better. The aim of this development research is to produce a learning product in the form of a Basic Geology mobile learning application to support learning anywhere and anytime and to determine the feasibility of the product in terms of media and materials, as well as responses from users. This research uses the Lee &amp; Owens model in developing mobile learning applications. Data was collected using a questionnaire filled out by media experts, material experts and service users in the Indonesian Geodiversity Area. The results of this research are (1) user needs for mobile learning to support Basic Geology learning by providing learning resources and building learning communities, (2) producing Basic Geology mobile learning products, (3) results of feasibility tests by media experts, material experts and Individual, small group and field trials show that mobile learning is suitable for use in learning.Keywords: geodiversity; basic geology; mobile learning

Noninvasive pediatric blood pressure assessment: exploring the clinicians' perspective.

Obtaining accurate and reliable blood pressure (BP) readings in pediatric patients is challenging, given difficulties in adhering to measurement guidelines, limited device validation and variable patient cooperation. This study aimed to investigate clinicians' perspectives surrounding noninvasive pediatric BP assessment to identify opportunities for improvement in BP technology and clinical practice. Based on an adapted version of the extended Technology Acceptance Model 2, semi-structured interviews were conducted with clinicians involved in noninvasive pediatric BP assessment in a major Australian children's hospital. Transcripts were analyzed thematically and guided by Technology Acceptance Model 2. Clinician responses ( n = 20) revealed that poor patient tolerance of BP measurement resulting from excessive cuff inflation is a major hindrance to reliable pediatric BP assessment. Clinicians described low trust in BP readings from automated devices, often relating to poor patient tolerance to cuff inflation, thereby diminishing the clinical utility of these readings in informing treatment decisions. Auscultatory measurement was regarded as more trustworthy and better tolerated, but less convenient to perform as compared with oscillometric measurement. A dissonance exists between (1) low trust and clinical utility of the most common and easy-to-use BP measurement approach (automated devices), versus (2) higher trust and clinical utility, but efficiency and user-related impediments, for the auscultatory method. Based on our results, we have developed the Blood Pressure Acceptance Model, which can be used to explain and predict clinicians' acceptance of BP technology. Further work is needed to improve the tolerability and accuracy of automated BP devices in real-world pediatric settings.

Front-line Demonstration: An Effective Communication Approach for Dissemination of Sustainable Rice Production Technology

During four consecutive Kharif seasons in the years 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019, front-line demonstrations were carried out in farmer's fields by the College of Agriculture, Waraseoni (Balaghat), Madhya Pradesh in the agroclimatic zone of the Chhattisgarh plains to assess the performance of rice Hybrids / varieties JRH-5, JRH-19, JR-81 and JRB-1 (developed by Jawaharlal Nehru Agriculture University, Jabalpur) under irrigated ecosystem. Front-line demonstrations, or FLDs, were carried out using a scientific package of rice technology practices. The yield and economic data of the plots that were on display were examined, evaluated, and examined with farmer practices (MTU-1010). With only an average of Rs. 2625/ha as an additional input cost in demonstrations using enhanced production technologies in FLDs, the mean grain yield increased by 23.80% over current farmer practices.Extension gap (10.48 q/ha), Technology gap (10.26 q/h) and the technology index is 15.79%. It is concluded that wide gap existed in potential and demonstration yield in high yielding rice varieties due to technology and extension gap in Balaghat District of Madhya Pradesh.By conductingfront line demonstrations of proven technologies, yield potential of rice can be increased to a greatextent. This will substantially increase the income as well as the livelihood of the farming community.

Artificial intelligence in international business

AbstractArtificial intelligence is poised to transform international business through the adoption of new digital technology practices as part of the fourth industrial revolution. The how, when, and why of artificial intelligence implementation in international business is still somewhat unknown but will likely significantly influence performance outcomes, market interpretation, risk prediction, consumer interactions, and technology‐based metrics. With greater emphasis on artificial intelligence‐based tools, the future practice of international business will require digital literacy. This means business managers need to improve the way they analyze artificial intelligence in terms of appreciating its usefulness while maintaining privacy and mitigation strategies. In this editorial, we discuss the current developments regarding artificial intelligence in international business with the goal of identifying future research areas of importance.

Sonic cultures of making: DIY sound and electronics since 1981

ABSTRACT This paper explores do-it-yourself (DIY) and maker practices within sound and electronics through a close reading of Electronics and music maker magazine, first published in the UK in 1981 by electronic component supplier Maplin electronics. Comparisons are made between these sonic cultures of making of the early 1980s and more contemporary activity and commentary within the field. Themes used to make these comparisons are community, activism, learning and teaching, and experimentalism. Differences and similarities between sonic DIY practices defined as orthodox and experimental are considered; questions relating to what constitutes sonic DIY practice in a changing sociotechnical landscape are raised; shifting community identities and tensions within sound technology interest groups are discussed; and motivations and methods for the support of learning sound electronics are compared. The paper makes a novel contribution to contextual histories and theories of DIY sound and technology practices, which typically cite radio hams of the early twentieth century and experimental music of the 1960s/70s as precursors to current activities. It brings a breadth of scholarship from the wider field of maker culture to bear on sound-specific DIY practice.

Ethical Implications of Technological Advancement and It's Impact on Happiness

Technology is being used to fulfill our practical purposes through specific systems or methods which needs appropriate scientific knowledge. Such as internet of things, computer science, Artificial intelligence, Robotics, Military technology etc. It is to be believed that technological advancement benefits the human life towards more comfort, cheerfulness, peacefulness, development and congeniality. But the reality is way more different. The implications of Technological Advancement is way more cynical or threatening rather than useful or constructive only. The risk of security, privacy, accountability, sustainability and utility are being questioned. Which is the matter of concern for the whole humanity today. The problem could be solved by understanding the ethical ways of human development in a true sense and to follow them legitimately. The ultimate purpose of creation and use of the technology must be ethical and it should be fair, non-hazardous and equitable. Technological practices should be invigilated thoroughly and understanding it’s advantages and disadvantages at the same time. Ethical decisions should be strictly made or verified while creating or discovering new technologies. As this directly impacts the environment and human lives, which defines the happiness and well being of people. It’s a fact about happiness is that it’s a fuel for our emotional and physical health. A sense of happiness and wellbeing helps us to nurture or prepare for better relationships and social interaction which ultimately contribute to the society and lives of others. Through this paper it is to be focused on understanding the gist of technology and technological advancement. What are the possible solutions for ethical Implications for a technological advancement. How could ethical Implications on technological advancement impacts the happiness.