Technology Trends Research Articles

Review and Research Prospects on Additive Manufacturing Technology for Agricultural Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as three-dimensional (3D) printing, is a manufacturing technology that constructs objects by sequentially adding material layer by layer. AM encompasses a range of different techniques capable of working with very different materials from metals and alloys to polymers and composites. As an advanced fabrication technology, AM is characterized by strong design flexibility, the ability to create intricate structures, and cost-effectiveness when compared to conventional fabrication methods. AM technology is widely employed in various sectors such as aerospace, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing, and its application is increasingly expanding into agricultural manufacturing. This study provides a comprehensive review and analysis of the current status of AM technology applied in the five main agricultural manufacturing aspects such as the application of AM technology in the manufacturing of agricultural equipment parts, its use in agricultural sensors, its role in the utilization of agricultural waste, its application in the field of plant growth mechanisms and in phytoremediation tissues. The current existing problems of AM technology and future development trends are also included to provide the implications for researchers. The adoption of AM technology in agriculture offers significant advantages, including enhanced production efficiency, cost reduction, innovation facilitation, and environmental protection. From initial prototyping to custom production today, AM technology provides more flexible, efficient and sustainable solutions for agricultural manufacturing. Especially in the fields of agricultural machinery, planting facilities and agricultural biomaterials, the application of AM technology has shown great potential and advantages. With the continuous advancement in technology and the reduction of costs, AM technology will become more popular and play a more vital role in agricultural manufacturing. In the future, we can foresee that AM will realize the manufacturing of agricultural products with higher precision, a more complex structure and more functions, providing more intelligent and personalized solutions for agricultural production. As such, it is emerging as a critical driving force in the advancement of precision agriculture.

Next gen cybersecurity paradigm towards artificial general intelligence: Russian market challenges and future global technological trends

Next gen cybersecurity paradigm towards artificial general intelligence: Russian market challenges and future global technological trends

A Critical Review of Emerging Technologies for Flash Flood Prediction: Examining Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Internet of Things, Cloud Computing, and Robotics Techniques

There has been growing interest in the application of smart technologies for hazard management. However, very limited studies have reviewed the trends of such technologies in the context of flash floods. This study reviews innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI)/machine learning (ML), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and robotics used for flash flood early warnings and susceptibility predictions. Articles published between 2010 and 2023 were manually collected from scientific databases such as Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. Based on the review, AI/ML has been applied to flash flood susceptibility and early warning prediction in 64% of the published papers, followed by the IoT (19%), cloud computing (6%), and robotics (2%). Among the most common AI/ML methods used in susceptibility and early warning predictions are random forests and support vector machines. However, further optimization and emerging technologies, such as computer vision, are required to improve these technologies. AI/ML algorithms have demonstrated very accurate prediction performance, with receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and areas under the curve (AUC) greater than 0.90. However, there is a need to improve on these current models with large test datasets. Through AI/ML, IoT, and cloud computing technologies, early warnings can be disseminated to targeted communities in real time via electronic media, such as SMS and social media platforms. In spite of this, these systems have issues with internet connectivity, as well as data loss. Additionally, Al/ML used a number of topographical variables (such as slope), geological variables (such as lithology), and hydrological variables (such as stream density) to predict susceptibility, but the selection of these variables lacks a clear theoretical basis and has inconsistencies. To generate more reliable flood risk assessment maps, future studies should also consider sociodemographic, health, and housing data. Considering future climate change impacts, susceptibility or early warning studies may be projected under different climate change scenarios to help design long-term adaptation strategies.

Industrial Sustainable Development: The Development Trend of Programmable Logic Controller Technology

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are indispensable for current and future industrial development, especially in smart factories, smart home technology, automated production lines, and machinery manufacturing. This study presents the trends in PLC software and hardware development through a technology roadmap and offers relevant suggestions to help industries achieve sustainable development, enhance market competitiveness, and provide references for research. Through expert interviews and fuzzy Delphi analysis, this study points out that future PLC development needs to focus on editing interfaces, syntax, Central Processing Units, Memory Units, and Communication Modules. Specific recommendations include visualizing regional/global label settings and connection settings, adding Python, JAVA, LabVIEW, and Scratch syntax, improving instruction execution speed, expanding program and expansion capacities, and adopting dual-channel Ethernet and connections to external networks and wireless networks. Fuzzy hierarchical analysis shows that Communication Modules are the most important component, followed by Central Processing Units and syntax expansion, and, finally, program and expansion capacity enhancements. These suggestions aim to promote product innovation and social environment demand evaluation, enhance product competitiveness, and achieve sustainable development goals.

Digital Twin Smart Water Conservancy: Status, Challenges, and Prospects

Digital twin technology, a new type of digital technology emerging in recent years, realizes real-time simulation, prediction and optimization by digitally modeling the physical world, providing a new idea and method for the design, operation and management of water conservancy projects, which is of great significance for the realization of the transformation of water conservancy informatization to intelligent water conservancy. In view of this, this paper systematically discusses the concept and development history of digital twin smart water conservancy, compares its differences with traditional water conservancy models, and further proposes the digital twin smart water conservancy five-dimensional model. Based on the five-dimensional model of digital twin water conservancy, the research progress of digital twin smart water conservancy is summarized by focusing on six aspects, namely digital twin water conservancy data perception, data transmission, data analysis and processing, digital twin water conservancy model construction, digital twin water conservancy interaction and collaboration and digital twin water conservancy service application, and the challenges and problems of digital twin technology in the application of smart water conservancy. Finally, the development trend of digital twin technology and the direction of technological breakthroughs are envisioned, aiming to provide reference and guidance for the research on digital twin technology in the field of smart water conservancy and to promote the further development of the field.

Unraveling the role of digital leadership in developing digital dynamic capabilities for the digital transformation of firms

PurposeWith the emergence of the digital era, the role of digital leaders in developing digital capabilities and driving their firms towards digital transformation has gained significant attention. Digital dynamic capabilities involve continuous engagement of leaders in sensing, seizing, and transforming activities needed to digitally transform their firms. However, little attention is given toward the role of digital leadership in developing digital dynamic capabilities. We seek to develop an understanding of the role of digital leadership in building digital dynamic capabilities for successful digital transformation.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a systematic literature review and looked at relevant articles using Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases with key search items being “digital leadership”, “dynamic capabilities”, “digital dynamic capabilities,”. We used AND, OR operators in between the key terms to search for the relevant articles.FindingsOur conceptual framework and propositions demonstrate the digital leader's role in building three core dynamic capabilities: digital sensing (technological trends, digital scouting, digital vision, future interpretation, and digital strategies), digital seizing (organizational agility and digital portfolio), and transforming (redesigning internal structures and ecosystem partnerships) for successful digital transformation.Originality/valueThis study pioneers an integrated framework that elucidates the role of digital leadership in fostering digital dynamic capabilities essential for successful digital transformation. While previous research has examined digital leadership and transformation in separate silos, our work bridges this gap by defining and dissecting three core capabilities—digital sensing, digital seizing, and transforming. By doing so, we offer both academic and practical communities a nuanced understanding of how digital leadership shapes dynamic capabilities. The study serves as a foundational roadmap for future research and offers actionable insights for organizations striving to navigate the complex landscape of digital transformation.

The Evolutionary Path and Emerging Trends of Circulating Fluidized Bed Technology: An Integrated Analysis through Bibliometric Assessment and Data Visualization

Confronted with the significant challenges of global climate change and environmental deterioration, the pursuit of carbon emission peaks and the realization of carbon neutrality have become a collective goal for countries worldwide. As an exemplary combustion technology noted for its efficiency and environmental friendliness, the circulating fluidized bed (CFB) is instrumental in curbing the release of carbon dioxide alongside other deleterious gases. The technology is pivotal in promoting the clean and efficient use of coal, simultaneously expediting the global shift towards a sustainable, green, and low-carbon future. This study employs a bibliometric analysis, a social network analysis, and information visualization techniques to delve into the evolution of CFB technology, leveraging the Web of Science database (SCI-EXPANDED and CPCI-S) and the Derwent Innovations Index (DII). Through a meticulous examination of academic papers and patent literature related to CFB technology, this research unveils the developmental trajectory and trends of CFB technology, providing a scientific foundation and reference for strategic technology planning and focused research in key areas. The findings indicate that, while there is a downward trend in the global publication of academic papers on CFB technology, the number of patent applications continues to grow steadily. CFB technology has achieved significant advancements in enhancing combustion efficiency, environmental protection, energy utilization, and waste management, and is progressing towards a direction of diversification and greater efficiency. Moving forward, the development of CFB technology should concentrate on pivotal areas such as material science, fluid dynamics simulation, environmental impact assessment, system integration, and intelligentization, to foster ongoing innovation and a broad application of the technology.

Advances and future development prospects of the cross-fusion of computer graphics and artificial intelligence

The application of artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly widespread in today's society, and many fields are beginning to incorporate AI technologies. With the support of artificial intelligence, the processing of graphics and images is also being integrated with computer graphics. The cross-fusion of computer graphics and artificial intelligence is gradually becoming a new technological trend. This paper uses a comparative research method to explore the relevant technologies of the cross-fusion of computer graphics and artificial intelligence, aiming to elucidate its cutting-edge research and future development trends. The paper first introduces the background and significance of the cross-fusion of computer graphics and artificial intelligence and then provides a detailed introduction to the research methods and technologies. It then focuses on discussing cutting-edge technologies such as image generation and processing based on deep learning, as well as image-to-image translation and transformation. The paper also highlights the trends and challenges in this field and proposes possible solutions. Therefore, it can be concluded that the cross-fusion of computer graphics and artificial intelligence is becoming a trend in the development of image processing technologies. Investment should be increased to promote the rapid development of this process, which will undoubtedly lead to a better future.

A Survey on Green Enablers: A Study on the Energy Efficiency of AI-Based 5G Networks.

In today's world, the significance of reducing energy consumption globally is increasing, making it imperative to prioritize energy efficiency in 5th-generation (5G) networks. However, it is crucial to ensure that these energy-saving measures do not compromise the Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), such as user experience, quality of service (QoS), or other important aspects of the network. Advanced wireless technologies have been integrated into 5G network designs at multiple network layers to address this difficulty. The integration of emerging technology trends, such as machine learning (ML), which is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI), and AI's rapid improvements have made the integration of these trends into 5G networks a significant topic of research. The primary objective of this survey is to analyze AI's integration into 5G networks for enhanced energy efficiency. By exploring this intersection between AI and 5G, we aim to identify potential strategies and techniques for optimizing energy consumption while maintaining the desired network performance and user experience.

Research Trends and ‘Space-Sky-Ground-Underground’ Monitoring Technology Analysis of Landslide Hazard

Landslide is a typical geological disaster distributed in most countries worldwide. Due to long-term natural weathering and human engineering disturbances, the instability of landslides is prone to occur. Once monitoring and disposal methods are implemented inappropriately, they can lead to landslide hazards, seriously threatening the safety of people’s lives and property. For a long time, extensive research on landslide monitoring has been conducted from various countries, providing crucial technical support for reducing the incidence and severity of landslide hazards. However, considering the complex geological conditions of actual landslides and the direct impact of internal and external factors such as rainfall, storms, and earthquakes, the early warning accuracy of landslide hazards is still relatively low. Therefore, based on advanced research achievements, it is significant to carry out research on the current status and development trends of landslide monitoring technology. Based on the Web of Science core database, this study quantitatively analyzes the advanced research achievements in global landslide monitoring in the past decade using bibliometric analysis. A systematic analysis of landslide monitoring technology development is conducted according to each study’s publication time, keywords, and countries. On this basis, a multi-dimensional monitoring system for landslides was proposed, which utilizes the complementary advantages of multi-dimensional monitoring technology to achieve all-round, high-precision, and real-time monitoring of landslides. Finally, taking the Xinpu landslide in the Three Gorges Region of China as an example, a multi-source and multi-field-monitoring experiment was conducted. The application of landslide multi-field-monitoring technology provides an essential reference for monitoring, early warning, as well as the scientific prevention and control of landslide hazard.

The Future of Septic Tanks: Uncovering Technological Trends through Patent Analysis

As global urbanisation, industrialisation, and population growth escalate, the production of wastewater also increases, leading to significant water pollution on a global scale. This pollution poses severe threats to environmental health, wildlife, and human communities. In rural areas where centralised sewage systems are often absent, septic tanks play a crucial role in managing wastewater. They separate solids from liquids and facilitate the biological decomposition of organic matter. This paper utilises a Patent Landscape Review (PLR) to analyse the scope and direction of innovations in septic tank technology. Conducted on 23 September 2022, the patent search targeted filings from January 2001 through June 2022 to identify prevailing trends and advancements within this field. Through a detailed examination of 889 patents, categorised by keywords, processes, materials, and designs, this study offers a comprehensive overview of the patent landscape for septic tanks. Key findings indicate that fibreglass cylindrical tanks dominate the market due to their durability and efficiency. This review also highlights a growing trend towards modular septic systems, which offer scalable solutions adaptable to specific environmental conditions. Furthermore, some patents propose the repurposing of various objects as septic tanks, demonstrating a move towards sustainability by reducing waste and enhancing environmental conservation. This paper emphasises the importance of continued innovation in septic tank technology to address the challenges of effective wastewater management in underserved rural communities.

Nasal Drug Delivery and Nose-to-Brain Delivery Technology Development Status and Trend Analysis: Based on Questionnaire Survey and Patent Analysis.

Nasal administration is a non-invasive method of drug delivery that offers several advantages, including rapid onset of action, ease of use, no first-pass effect, and fewer side effects. On this basis, nose-to-brain delivery technology offers a new method for drug delivery to the brain and central nervous system, which has attracted widespread attention. In this paper, the development status and trends of nasal drug delivery and nose-to-brain delivery technology are deeply analyzed through multiple dimensions: literature research, questionnaire surveys, and patent analysis. First, FDA-approved nasal formulations for nose-to-brain delivery were combed. Second, we collected a large amount of relevant information about nasal drug delivery through a questionnaire survey of 165 pharmaceutical industry practitioners in 28 provinces and 161 different organizations in China. Third, and most importantly, we conducted a patent analysis of approximately 700+ patents related to nose-to-brain delivery, both domestically and internationally. This analysis was conducted in terms of patent application trends, technology life cycle, technology composition, and technology evolution. The LDA topic model was employed to identify technological topics in each time window (1990-2023), and the five key major evolution paths were extracted. The research results in this paper will provide useful references for relevant researchers and enterprises in the pharmaceutical industry, promoting the further development and application of nasal drug delivery and nose-to-brain delivery technology.

Innovation dynamics in BRICS economies investigated by artificial intelligence (AI)

This study aims to address the existing knowledge gap regarding the specific impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on patent research and emphasize its strategic significance as a catalyst for innovation. The methodology employs a comprehensive approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research methods. It systematically investigates the transformative potential of AI in patent research within the BRICS nations, including an examination of the technological, ethical, and legal challenges associated with AI’s application in patent analysis. This research contributes to the field by extending beyond the conventional focus on the role of patents in innovation and shedding light on the potential of AI in patent research. It offers valuable insights into how AI can redefine the landscape of patent research, providing a more rapid and accurate perspective on the identification of technological trends, opportunities, and competitive factors. The findings underscore that AI in patent research yields numerous advantages, ranging from efficient data processing to the forecasting of technological trends. Future studies should explore ethical and legal considerations associated with AI in patent research, as well as its implementation in the strategies of both corporate entities and governmental bodies in the BRICS nations.

Application of virtual simulation technology in epidemiology education: a systematic review

Objective: To systematically review the progress, advantages, disadvantages, precautions and future trends of virtual simulation technology used in epidemiology teaching. Methods: A systematical literature retrieval was conducted by using PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data and VIP Paper Check System with key words of epidemiology, teaching and virtual simulation, and the literatures included were screened and classified with narrative integration method. Chinese virtual simulation teaching platforms were used to select the literatures about existing epidemiology virtual simulation teaching projects for integration and analysis. Results: A total of 22 articles were included (7 in Chinese and 15 in English), most of which were teaching projects for students majoring in Public Health. We also found 24 national first-class courses and 21 provincial first-class courses in virtual simulation of epidemiology in China. The application of virtual simulation technology in epidemiology education is still in its infancy, and the interaction degree is mostly moderate. It is mainly used in three scenarios: improving the visualization degree of complex concepts and structures, training the operational skills through low-risk and low-cost virtual environment, serving as an effective supplement to the teaching of epidemiological field investigation and response to public health emergencies. In terms of effect, it is conducive to students' understanding of epidemiology related phenomena and principles, and has the advantages of breaking through time and space constraints, reducing teaching costs and risks, improving students' attention and satisfaction and so on. However, it also faces the lack of foundation in the initial stage, and some students have problems such as psychological and physiological discomfort. In the future, we need to optimize the development process, program design and so on. At the same time, we should conduct more in-depth research on cost calculation, effect evaluation and curriculum integration. Conclusions: The application of virtual simulation technology in epidemiology education is an important part of training high-level applied public health talents. We encourage to actively carry out virtual simulation teaching in epidemiology, and train public health talents with Chinese characteristics.

The post-pandemic era tourist guiding: evidence from professional tourist guides

ABSTRACT This research contributes to the literature by uncovering the perspectives of professional tourist guides on the tourist guiding profession in the post-pandemic era. Following a qualitative research approach, 29 semi-structured interviews were conducted with professional tourist guides working in different regions of Türkiye. The results illustrate that being physically demanding, the lack of work-life balance, unfair expectations of travel agencies, seasonality, and the necessity of constantly updating knowledge and skills are among the challenges of tourist guiding. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the future of tourist guiding emerged as tourist-guide and tourist-related impacts. Furthermore, future employment risks emerged as the high risk of unemployment and its mental results, vulnerability to crises, and the risk of unemployment at older ages due to declining performance in the future. The findings also emphasise the need for education and training, acquiring new skills, adapting to technology and new trends, continued vocational development, and understanding new tourist expectations in the post-COVID era for the future of tourist guiding.

Technological advances and trends in the mining industry: a systematic review

Technological advances and trends in the mining industry: a systematic review

Use of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Technologies to Support Resilience and Skill-Building in Caregivers of Persons With Dementia: A Scoping Review.

Dementia presents a growing public health challenge with most affected individuals living at home, placing significant responsibility on their caregivers. Various interventions, from traditional support groups and education programs to emerging technologies, and more specifically virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), aim to enhance caregiver skills. While VR/AR shows promise in educating and fostering empathy among caregivers and healthcare professionals, its overall effectiveness and practicality in older adults and dementia care warrant further exploration. This review aimed to summarize currently available VR and AR interventions tailored for family caregivers of persons living with dementia (PLWD) in home or clinical settings, including their level of effectiveness, and to compile a summary of features that contributed to technology acceptance in family caregivers of PLWD. We conducted a systematic search in OVID PsychInfo, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and ERIC, as well as CADTH's Grey Matters, OpenGrey, National Technical Information Service, OAIster, and Health Quality Ontario, to comprehensively summarize the existing evidence underscoring the role of VR and AR in supporting education, resilience-building, and skills training for family caregivers of PLWD. The search terms were built with the assistance of a research librarian and involved synonyms for VR, AR, and dementia. Two screeners conducted a rigorous screening and data extraction to analyze and summarize findings. Studies were included if they focused on family caregivers engaging in interventions utilizing a three-dimensional VR environment and/or Metaverse for group learning in psychotherapeutic modalities such as psychoeducation, therapy, communication, and skill-building. The primary outcome of the studies was assessing measures of well-being (e.g., quality of life, communication, interaction, personhood) and learning outcomes for caregivers, while the secondary outcomes focused on identifying barriers and facilitators influencing the acceptability of VR/AR among dementia caregivers. Content analysis and descriptive statistics were used to summarize key trends in technology and evidence effectiveness and acceptability. Of the 1,641 articles found, 112 were included, with six articles meeting inclusion for analysis. Studies differed in duration and frequency of data collection, with interventions varying from single events to months-long programs, often employing home-based approaches using VR or online platforms. No study used AR. Usability issues and unclear benefits of use were identified as factors that hinder technology acceptance for dementia caregivers. However, technologies demonstrated engaging user experiences, fostering skill-building, confidence, and competence among caregivers. Positive psychological effects were also observed, facilitated by immersive VR and AR interventions, resulting in improved caregiver empathy and reduced stress, depression, and loneliness. VR and AR interventions for family caregivers ofPLWD show the potential to enhance empathy and skills and reduce stress. Challenges such as technological limitations and user inexperience issues persist. Home-based VR training aligns with caregiver comfort but lacks focus on financial aspects and cultural competencies. Co-design approaches offer solutions by addressing user concerns and promoting end-user engagement or empowerment.

Assessment of the financial performance and sustainability of water management companies in Spain from a quantitative and technological perspective (2018-2022)

Introduction: Water collection, treatment and distribution companies in Spain face challenges due to climate variability, obsolete infrastructures and the need for efficient water resource management. This study provides a comprehensive and up-to-date analysis of the financial and operational performance of the sector, addressing climate change adaptations and innovative technologies, areas little explored in previous studies. Methodology: A quantitative analysis of financial and operational data from official sources was carried out, complemented by a literature review on water resources management and technological trends. Includes financial data collection and analysis, profitability assessment, and analysis of climate change adaptation technologies and strategies. Results and discussions: An improvement in the profitability of the sector was observed, due to efficient management and modernisation of infrastructures. Public-private collaboration and the adoption of innovative technologies, such as desalination and reuse of recycled water, are crucial to address climate challenges and ensure sustainability. It also highlights the need for a global approach to water management due to the externalisation of water stress. Conclusions: In conclusion, it emphasises innovation and collaboration to improve water management in Spain, ensuring its sustainability and future resilience.

Principles of HR Strategic Management in Innovation Entrepreneurial Structures

In innovation entrepreneurial structures, where dynamism and continuous changes become everyday factors HR strategic management plays a key role in reaching success. Elaboration and effective implementation of strategies in HR management require observance of several fundamental principles. The article studies principles of HR strategic management in innovation business structures, which build the basis of successful strategic management in innovation development, where efficiency of HR management becomes a key factor for attaining goals and maintaining competitiveness. The author pointed out to the importance of adaptation and flexibility in HR management so that the innovation business structure could respond quickly to changes in market environment and technological trends. At the same time the author also highlighted such aspects as orientation to employees’ development, leadership strengthening, motivation of creative thinking and team-building that can introduce innovation. Efficient HR management can serve as a catalyst for elaboration, development and sustainable introduction of innovation in entrepreneurial structures.

Perception of defecation intent: applied methods and technology trends.

The aging population has led to a widening gap between the supply and demand for defecation care. To address this issue, the development of defecation care devices is the most direct and effective solution. Pre-defecation care devices offer a more personalized and comfortable alternative to the conventional post-defecation care devices currently available on the market. Furthermore, they facilitate greater patient involvement in the care process. Real-time monitoring and accurate identification of defecation intention are key technologies in the development of pre-defecation nursing devices. Automatic and accurate online monitoring of defecation intention can provide accurate early warning information fordifferentiated defecation assistance and cleansing care, effectively reducing nursing workload and improving patients' quality of life. However, there are relatively few studies on real-time monitoring and accurate identification of defecation intention. This review summarizes the existing defecation intention sensing technologies and their monitoring principles and research status, and explores the potential development direction of defecation intention sensing systems by comparing the characteristics and application conditions of various sensing technologies, which provides a direction for perception strategies for future defecation intention monitoring and earlywarning research.