Implications Of Technology Research Articles

Charting the Path to Electrification: Analyzing the Economic and Technological Potential of Advanced Vehicle Powertrains

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office (DOE-VTO) is driving advancements in highway transportation by targeting energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and cost reductions. This study investigates the fuel economy potential and cost implications of advanced powertrain technologies using comprehensive system simulations. Leveraging tools such as Autonomie and TechScape, developed by Argonne National Laboratory, this study evaluates multiple timeframes (2023–2050) and powertrain types, including conventional internal combustion engines, hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and battery electric vehicles (BEVs). Simulations conducted across standard regulatory driving cycles provide detailed insights into fuel economy improvements, cost trajectories, and total cost of ownership. The findings highlight key innovations in battery energy density, lightweighting, and powertrain optimization, demonstrating the growing viability of BEVs and their projected economic competitiveness with conventional vehicles by 2050. This work delivers actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders, underscoring the transformative potential of vehicle electrification in achieving sustainable transportation goals.

Engineering Lattice Strain in Co-Doped NiMoO4 for boosting Methanol Oxidation Reaction.

Nickel-based molybdates have attracted considerable attention owing to their distinctive isomorphous structure. In this study, pristine NiMoO4 and Co-doped Ni1-xCoxMoO4 were synthesized and investigated for their electrocatalytic activity in methanol oxidation and methanol-assisted water splitting reactions. Through a comprehensive exploration of the structure-property relationship, it was found that the optimal coexistence of α and β molybdate phases, induced by Co doping, led to lattice strain and facilitated the presence of essential catalytic descriptors such as higher oxidation states of Ni and surface oxygen vacancies within the lattice. These factors contributed to the enhanced electrocatalytic activity of Ni0.7Co0.3MoO4 in methanol oxidation and hydrogen evolution reaction. Detailed kinetic studies were conducted to further elucidate the mechanisms involved. Overall, these findings highlight the promising potential of Ni0.7Co0.3MoO4 as an effective catalyst for electrochemical methanol upgrading in conjunction with water splitting, with implications for sustainable energy conversion technologies.

Room-Temperature Organic Spintronic Devices with Wide Range Magnetocurrent Tuning and Multifunctionality via Electro-Optical Compensation Strategy.

In spintronics, devices exhibiting large, widely tunable magnetocurrent (MC) values at room temperature are particularly appealing due to their potential in advanced sensing, data storage, and multifunctional technologies. Organic semiconductors (OSCs), with their rich and unique spin-dependent and (opto-)electronic properties, hold significant promise for realizing such devices. However, current organic devices are constrained by limited design strategies, yielding MC values typically confined to tens of percent, thereby restricting their potential for multifunctional applications. Here, this study introduces an electro-optical compensation strategy to modulate MC values, which synergistically integrates and manages the interplays among carrier transport, spin-dependent reactions, and photogenerated carrier dynamics in OSCs-based devices. This approach achieves ultrahigh room-temperature MC values of +13200% and -10600% in the designed devices, with continuous and precise tunability over this range-marking a breakthrough in organic spintronic devices. Building on this achievement, by integrating multiple controllable parameters-light, bias, magnetic field, and mechanical flexibility-into a single device, a flexible, room-temperature, multifunctional device is activated, functioning as the high-sensitivity magnetic field sensor, composite field sensor, magnetic current inverter, and magnetically-controlled artificial synaptic, etc. These findings open an avenue for designing high-performance, multifunctional devices with broad implications for future spintronic-related technologies.

Attosecond electron dynamics in solid-state systems

Abstract Attosecond science has revolutionized the study of ultrafast electron dynamics. Originally based on high-order harmonic generation from intense laser fields, it provided groundbreaking insights into physical processes occurring on the few- to sub-femtosecond time scales. From its initial focus on atomic and molecular systems, the field rapidly expanded to solid-state materials, uncovering phenomena with possible significant implications for information technology. This review focuses on some of the key experimental techniques that enable attosecond resolution in solid-state systems. We categorize them into four main groups: core-hole clock spectroscopy, photoemission, XUV-based all-optical techniques, and sub-cycle strong-field approaches. Together, these methods contributed to significant breakthroughs, such as elucidating the timing of photoemission from solids, possibly enabling the manipulation of the electro-optical properties of a crystal with light fields, and advancing our understanding of fundamental light-matter interactions. Their application to novel materials and the development of innovative, cutting-edge light sources and techniques, will define the future of attoscience in solids, setting the basis for profound advancements in both scientific understanding and technological innovation.

Digital Banking Practices and its Impact on the Competitive Scenario of the Indian Banking Sector

Advancement in technology and digitalization has altered the way economic activities are carried out, and has paved the way for a faster pace of growth across most sectors of the worldwide economy. The Indian Banking Sector (IBS) is no exception to this transition. The IBS has progressed over the years and digital adoption has played a significant role in financial inclusion. Studies have established that adoption of digital practices have impacted operational efficiency and profitability of banks. Bank characteristics are also found to have impacted digital adoption, and have shaped the competitive structure of the country's banking sector. Digital technology has also enabled banks to economize of personnel and branches. In this context, this paper sought to examine the extent of digital adoption in the Indian banking sector and inquire into any structural changes it had led to, over a period of time. The study is exploratory in nature and examined the composition of the IBS in terms of banks leading in the overall digital banking practices. As a measure of depth of digitalization, the study also analyzed and compared the value of digital banking transactions in relation to total assets of the banks. The study also inquired into whether bank ownership type had any implications for adoption digital technology in banking practices. Through these gradations of analysis, the purpose was also to look for indications of the future structural composition of the IBS.

Humans in Digitized Worlds: Perspectives on Self-Expansion, Outdoor Activities, and Body Perception

The growing influence of digital media has fundamentally transformed human experience, particularly in relation to physical activity and self-perception. As digital worlds increasingly permeate our daily lives, it becomes essential to examine how these technologies shape our interactions with the environment, our bodies, and our sense of self. This symposium seeks to explore these intersections, highlighting how digital worlds shape our embodied experiences and self-perception. The first presentation examines the philosophical implications of wearable fitness technologies, focusing on how self-tracking devices influence self-knowledge and create potential dissonance between digital feedback and bodily awareness. The second explores the role of digital tools in outdoor activities, presenting a framework to understand their impact on the relationship between humans and nature. The third turns to adolescence, investigating how social media use and physical activity affect body image and interoception. Together, these contributions offer a multidisciplinary perspective on bodies and digital media.

The Role of Accounting and Financial Management in Humanity's Transition to the Interstellar Era

As humanity stands on the cusp of an interstellar age, propelled by advancements in quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and space exploration, the disciplines of accounting and financial management face unprecedented transformations. This paper explores how accounting will adapt to the new economic, social, and technological paradigms of interstellar expansion. Drawing from scholarly and futuristic perspectives, it examines the evolving responsibilities of accountants and finance professionals, the implications of quantum technologies, and the multidimensional challenges posed by the era of interplanetary economies. This discussion under-scores the indispensability of accounting as a framework for resource allocation, ethical governance, and socio-economic stability in the emerging age.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations in Implementing Assistive Technologies in Healthcare

Assistive technologies are becoming an increasingly important aspect of healthcare, particularly for people with physical or cognitive problems. While earlier research has investigated the ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI and assistive technologies, many studies have failed to address real-world obstacles such as data privacy, algorithm bias, and regulatory issues. To further understand these issues, we conducted a thorough analysis of the current literature and analyzed real-world case studies. As AI-powered solutions become more widely used, we discovered that stronger legal frameworks and robust data security standards are required. Furthermore, privacy-preserving procedures and transparent accountability are critical for retaining patient trust and guaranteeing the effective use of these technologies in healthcare. This research provides important insights into the ethical and practical challenges that must be tackled for the successful integration of assistive technologies.

Introduction to the special issue of technoscientific practices of music: critical implications of new technologies

This special issue, emerging from a symposium organised in Helsinki in November 2022, brings together contributions from a group of scholars, exploring the technoscientific practices of music and the critical implications of new technologies. The authors investigate the complex and evolving relationship between human creativity and advanced computational technologies, addressing the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies on creative autonomy, ethical considerations in data and cultural appropriation, and the sustainability of technological consumption. The authors advocate for inclusive and responsible approaches to technology design that enhance human-machine collaboration while maintaining ethical standards. This introduction provides the context and motivation for the issue, outlining the contribution of each article.

Critical Review of Wireless Charging Technologies for Electric Vehicles

As the world transitions towards sustainable transportation, the advancement of electric vehicles (EVs) has become imperative. Wireless power transfer (WPT) technology presents a promising solution to enhance the convenience and efficiency of EV charging while alleviating the challenges associated with traditional wired systems. This paper conducts an in-depth exploration of WPT technologies for EVs, focusing on their theoretical foundations, practical implementation, optimization strategies, development trends, and limitations. The theoretical principles of wireless charging are first elucidated, categorizing them into near-field methods, such as inductive and capacitive charging, and far-field methods, including microwave and laser-based charging. A comparative analysis reveals the advantages and limitations inherent to each technology. The implementation section examines various charging strategies, encompassing stationary, dynamic, and quasi-dynamic wireless charging, assessing their feasibility and effectiveness in practical applications. Furthermore, optimization techniques aimed at enhancing WPT system performance are examined in depth, with particular emphasis on coil structure optimizations, anti-misalignment solutions, compensation topology optimizations, modulation strategy optimizations, and parameter identifications. The discussion section outlines current development trends in wireless charging technologies for EVs, highlighting the limitations that hinder the widespread adoption of wireless charging technologies in the EV market. Finally, potential research directions and the implications of wireless charging technology on the development of EVs are summarized. This critical review aims to provide valuable insights for researchers and practitioners dedicated to advancing the field of wireless charging for EVs.

Quantum algorithms for enhanced educational technologies

Quantum computing is the beginning of a new age for diverse industries, and educational technologies will significantly benefit from such quantum developments. This is a novel approach, applying quantum algorithms to enhance educational technologies, with no previous studies addressing the integration of quantum computing for personalized learning, data security, and resource optimization in such a comprehensive manner. It is in this context that the present paper delves into the role of quantum algorithms in education ecosystems and focuses on their capacity for transforming both learner and institution personalization, resources management, and secure data protection in learning contexts. Modern quantum algorithms like Grover’s Algorithm and Quantum Annealing support various functionalities like rapidity in processing as well as instantaneous flexibility towards customization of learning resources for the students and proper optimization of the learning trail. Also, quantum cryptography provides reliable security and prevention against future attacks on cyber security hence providing safe means of transferring educational data. Unfortunately, the use of these technologies in learning institutions has not been without some problems. Some of the challenges are the creation of well-functioning quantum hardware, functional software solutions, the application of data ethically, and others. This study presents a balanced view of the positive impacts as well as the technical and ethical implications of quantum technologies in education. In this respect, the paper advances theoretical and practical knowledge about what quantum computing could potentially do to reshape education. In conclusion, the findings of this study have revealed that more scholarly and collaborative research should be conducted in order to eliminate the existing obstacles to the use and exploitation of potential benefits of quantum computing in the educational system.

Thermal effects on the resistive superconducting transition in step-edge YBCO squid arrays

Abstract The effect of thermal fluctuations in Yttrium Barium Copper Oxide (YBCO) SQUID filters (SQIFs), containing arrays of 258, 2304, and 4080 SQUIDs, were investigated using the electrical resistivity and applied magnetic field up to 9 tesla. Our study reveals that the SQIFs experience a two-step superconductor transition. The transition at lower temperature is only present in the SQIF samples, not in the control sample without the SQFIs, and it is investigated here in terms of two primary dissipation mechanisms. The first dominates near the transition temperature and has the characteristics of thermally activated phase slippage (TAPS). At lower temperatures, the dominant characteristics are those of thermally-activated magnetic flux flow (TAFF). The mechanisms producing such behaviors contribute significantly to dissipation effects, resulting in an additional DC voltage that overlays the Josephson current, regardless of the quantity of SQUIDs in the SQIFs. These dissipation effects can have significant implications for technologies utilizing high-temperature superconductor SQIFs unless the operating temperature is lowered significantly below the superconducting transition temperature.

Unlocking the potential of palm tree starch: A review on Modification techniques and its application

Abstract Palm starch is an underutilised and unconventional resource gaining popularity globally due to its health-promoting properties. However, native starch often falls short in areas such as retrogradation during gelatinisation, instability at high temperatures, and acidic conditions, limiting its functionality in the food industry. Modifications are necessary to enhance the performance of native starch and broaden its applications across food and other industries. The technological implications of its underutilisation remain under investigation. This review offers a comprehensive summary of starch modifications across different palm varieties within the same family, utilising various techniques, including chemical, thermal, and non-thermal methods. It examines the resulting changes in physicochemical properties, granular and molecular structures, and the applications of these starches. Additionally, the impact of these modification techniques on starch-rich food systems such as Palmyra sprout, kithul starch, talipot starch, and sago starch is reviewed. The use of modified starches in developing biodegradable packaging film is also discussed. This review thoroughly explores the physicochemical, morphological, and rheological traits of both native and modified palm starch.

Self-Care Practices in the Context of Older Adults Living Independently

Supporting practices around self-care is crucial for enabling older adults to continue living in their own homes and "ageing in place". While existing assistive technology and research concerning self-care practices have been centered on a medicalized viewpoint, it neglects a holistic perspective of older adults' preferences in self-care. This paper presents a study involving 12 older adults aged 65 and above in a semi-structured interview study, where we aimed to understand participants' practices around self-care. Our findings show that self-care in such cases involves activities across the physical, emotional and psychological, social, leisure and spiritual domains. This paper provides a comprehensive understanding of the daily self-care practices of older adults including an updated self-care framework identifying key aspects, and a set of design implications for self-care assistive technologies.

Multilateral cooperation in building critical infrastructure security and resilience: case of American deterrence of Chinese cyberthreats

ABSTRACT Despite the omnipresent practices of cyber operations across countries, China's cyber pursuit has particularly caught international attention. Its active development of cyber capacities and its ‘cyber great power’ vision have prompted the United States and its allies to develop a more powerful and holistic approach to address China's growing cyberthreat. By examining China’s growing cyber capacity and the implications of advanced technologies on security using publicly available materials, the paper suggests that making use of every actor's capability and capacity is crucial to developing a more solid and advanced collective cyber defence system. In particular, given the strong connection between information and cyberspace, the independence of critical infrastructure organisations and information systems from adversaries is crucial to ensuring swift coordination and avoiding disruptions during a crisis. The paper therefore contributes to the discussion of cybersecurity by delving into the principles necessary for deterring cyberthreats against critical infrastructure.

Utilization of Blockchain in Improving Security of E-Commerce Transactions in the MSME Sector

The utilization of blockchain technology in enhancing the security of e-commerce transactions in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector presents a transformative approach to addressing persistent challenges such as fraud, data breaches, and transaction transparency. This study employs a qualitative method through literature review and library research to explore the integration of blockchain into MSME e-commerce platforms. By analyzing existing research and case studies, the paper identifies how blockchain's decentralized nature, encryption techniques, and smart contracts can mitigate risks and foster trust between MSMEs and consumers. Key findings suggest that blockchain can provide immutable transaction records, enhance supply chain traceability, and streamline payment processes, thereby improving overall operational efficiency. However, the study also highlights potential barriers, including technological adoption, cost implications, and regulatory uncertainties, which may hinder widespread implementation in the MSME sector. Addressing these barriers through education, policy development, and collaborative innovation is essential to unlocking blockchain’s full potential. This paper contributes to the growing discourse on digital transformation by emphasizing the critical role of secure, transparent, and efficient transactional frameworks in empowering MSMEs in the global digital economy. Future research is recommended to focus on practical implementation models and sector-specific blockchain applications that align with MSME capabilities and market demands.

Synergistic proton conduction via Ca-vacancy coupled with Li+-bridge in Ca5(PO4)3OH

Proton conductivity plays a crucial role in the advancement of materials for proton ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) and a variety of electrochemical devices. Traditional approaches to enhancing proton conductivity in perovskites have largely relied on doping strategies to induce structural oxygen vacancies. However, these methods have yet to overcome the challenges associated with achieving desired proton conductivity. Here, we introduce an approach wherein intermediate Li+ ions act as a bridge linked to Ca vacancies, fostering a mechanism for accelerated proton transport. Utilizing protonated Ca5(PO4)3OH-H(Li) as an electrolyte, we achieve a proton conductivity of 0.1 S cm−1 and a fuel cell performance of 661 mW cm−2 at an operational temperature of 550 °C for realizing low temperature PCFCs. This proton transport synergy overcomes traditional doping limitations, enabling the advancement of proton-conducting electrolytes and enhancing the efficiency of proton conducting electrolyte fuel cells, with implications in energy conversion and storage technologies.

Regional green economies and Bitcoin's electricity consumption: Paving the way for global sustainability.

In the context of global sustainability goals, it is imperative to examine the interplay between emerging financial technologies and environmental objectives, which in turn offers insights into the implications of such technologies on sustainable investments and environmental policy decisions. Accordingly, this study investigates the influence of Bitcoin's energy consumption (BEC), as a representative of the cryptocurrency market, on the regional green economy indices of the United States, Europe, and Asia. Utilizing both unfiltered and filtered data, we conduct empirical analyses from both static and dynamic perspectives to account for the causal relationships that emerged during critical market developments, employing novel algorithms including forward recursive, rolling windows, and recursive rolling. The results reveal that energy-related developments play a dominant role in shaping the causal link between BEC and the green economy performance. More specifically, events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and China's ban on cryptocurrency mining appear to significantly drive casual effects. After filtering out the impacts of global equity markets and information technology developments, we observe even more pronounced impacts on these causal relationships. Our findings highlight the need for coordinated global actions to address the energy consumption of the cryptocurrency market, facilitating the transition to global sustainability.

New thermoplastic poly(ester-ether) elastomers with enhanced mechanical properties derived from long-chain dicarboxylic acid for medical device applications.

Recent advances in medical plastics highlight the need for sustainable materials with desirable elastic properties. Traditional polyester elastomers have been used as alternatives to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) due to their biocompatibility and adjustable mechanical properties. However, these materials often lack the necessary stability and toughness for reliable medical applications. To address these issues, this study introduces renewable 1,12-dodecanedioic acid (DA) to create a copolymer with diols, resulting in a structure akin to polyolefins. This innovative approach significantly enhances toughness by regulating chain segment lengths and integrates high performance with sustainability. The resulting bio-based elastomer exhibits remarkable biocompatibility and elastic recovery (69.0%). This work represents a significant advancement in the development of eco-friendly materials suitable for medical device applications, with potential implications for tissue engineering and other healthcare technologies.

From Pioneering Discoveries to Innovative Therapies: A Journey Through the History and Advancements of Nanoparticles in Breast Cancer Treatment.

Nanoparticle technology has revolutionized breast cancer treatment by offering innovative solutions addressing the gaps in traditional treatment methods. This paper aimed to comprehensively explore the historical journey and advancements of nanoparticles in breast cancer treatment, highlighting their transformative impact on modern medicine. The discussion traces the evolution of nanoparticle-based therapies from their early conceptualization to their current applications and future potential. We initially explored the historical context of breast cancer treatment, highlighting the limitations of conventional therapies, such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The advent of nanotechnology has introduced a new era characterized by the development of various nanoparticles, including liposomes, dendrimers, and gold nanoparticles, designed to target cancer cells with remarkable precision. We further described the mechanisms of action for nanoparticles, including passive and active targeting, and reviewed significant breakthroughs and clinical trials that have validated their efficacy. Current applications of nanoparticles in breast cancer treatment have been examined, showcasing clinically approved therapies and comparing their effectiveness with traditional methods. This article also discusses the latest advancements in nanoparticle research, including drug delivery systems and combination therapy innovations, while addressing the current technical, biological, and regulatory challenges. The technical challenges include efficient and targeted delivery to tumor sites without affecting healthy tissue; biological, such as potential toxicity, immune system activation, or resistance mechanisms; economic, involving high production and scaling costs; and regulatory, requiring rigorous testing for safety, efficacy, and long-term effects to meet stringent approval standards. Finally, we have explored emerging trends, the potential for personalized medicine, and the ethical and social implications of this transformative technology. In conclusion, through comprehensive analysis and case studies, this paper underscores the profound impact of nanoparticles on breast cancer treatment and their future potential.