Search

Technologies are becoming increasingly autonomous, able to complete tasks on behalf of consumers without human intervention. For example, robot vacuums clean the floor while cooking machines implement recipes on their own. These autonomous products free consumers from daily chores that they used to perform manually. The current research suggests that some consumers derive meaning from completing such manual tasks, and that this meaning of manual labor acts as a barrier to the adoption of autonomous products. A series of field and experimental studies shows that consumers who score high (vs. low) on the meaning of manual labor construct tend to evaluate autonomous products less favorably and adopt them less frequently. However, making alternative sources of meaning in life salient can serve as a remedy to increase autonomous product adoption among these consumers. One such strategy is to emphasize that the time gained through the use of autonomous products can be spent on meaningful activities, thus offsetting the detrimental effects of meaning of manual labor on autonomous product adoption. The findings suggest effective interventions for firms that offer autonomous products while stressing the need to provide meaningful experiences to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Background Aims Patients/Methods Results Conclusions Skin biorevitalization involves multiple intradermal injections to enhance skin quality, but precise dermal targeting can be challenging due to variations in skin thickness smaller, less painful needles with fewer skin reactions are attractive options.This study evaluates a new Micro‐Needle device's performance and safety in comparison with the classic needle used in skin biorevitalization.Subjects with facial and neck skin aging were enrolled. Safety outcomes, including immediate and local tolerability, were assessed. Performance outcomes measured skin radiance, wrinkles and photoaging grade, hydration, subepidermal low echogenic band, dermis thickness, and skin elasticity. Both subjects and investigators recorded Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale scores.Micro‐Needle injections demonstrated superior performance compared to the classic needle, influenced by the specific skin zones and thickness. Micro‐Needle was superior for skin wrinkles at D49 for periorbital zone and nasolabial folds by −14.5% (p = 0.01) and −15% (p = 0.004), respectively, and for neck by 9.6% (p = 0.0008). The Nanosoft device showed a faster improvement for skin hydration at D42 for the cheek zone (p = 0.04) and at D75 for the neck area (p = 0.01); and for skin radiance at D75 (p = 0.03) and at D120 (p = 0.0098). Ex vivo studies confirmed the Micro‐Needle's accuracy in product placement in the dermis. Adverse events were milder with Micro‐Needle and no serious adverse events occurred.Both needles significantly improved skin quality, but Micro‐Needle enhanced the outcomes of skin biorevitalization procedures, particularly in terms of skin wrinkle reduction, elasticity, and overall skin hydration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review contributes to the sustainable design and development of advanced techniques to address the growing problem of water pollution. Water is a fundamental importance for every living creature on the earth. It is necessary for the synthesis, structure, and movement of cellular components, nutrient transport, and body metabolism. The water is contaminated by various activates such as modernization, urbanization and population. When pollutants enter the ecosystem, they are found in various forms by humans, animals, plants, and microbes, starting a cycle that is harmful to both the ecosystem and human health. The contaminants in water disrupt the mechanism spontaneity and cause short and long-term waterborne diseases. In this review, the probable contaminations and their potential pathways are explored. The presence of relatively low concentrations of emerging pollutants in the aquatic environment cannot be eliminated by conventional water/wastewater treatment processes. This brings new challenges in terms of making an appropriate selection of technologies from an economic, technical, and environmental perspective. To address the drinking water pollution problems, a number of technologies have been proposed, such as adsorption, ion exchange, electro-techniques, membrane separation, and precipitation techniques. The results of ongoing research efforts include some processes and technology for purifying contaminated water were discussed. This review presents the technologies, concepts and potentials in an understandable way. Further, the difficulties encountered in applying this technique will be examined, and future directions will be delineated. Additionally, it contains some significant hybrid technologies and upcoming technologies that look promising and which can resolve a large number of current problems. Future water treatment should concentrate on combining natural and engineered systems to supply drinking water in a way that is economically viable, environmentally responsible, resource-recyclable, and technically efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Art & Interpretation / Sanat ve Yorum is the property of Ataturk University Coordinatorship of Scientific Journals and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This is an article in the field of metallurgical engineering. Aiming at the limitation of low reactivity of barite and few chemical processing methods, a new soda ash conversion method is proposed. Firstly, the effect of barite reaction particle size, temperature, and sodium carbonate concentration on the production rate of barium carbonate by the hydrochloric acid hydrolysis method is explored. The results show that the sodium carbonate concentration has the greatest impact on the reaction conversion rate. At limited experimental conditions, when sodium carbonate is used when the concentration reaches 28.57%, the highest formation rate of barium carbonate reaches 90.05%. Secondly, in the subsequent reaction, ammonium chloride is selected to re-convert the barite conversion product to prepare ammonium carbonate. The barium carbonate produced by this method has a higher yield and purity. The new process breaks through the traditional misconception that barium sulfate does not react with soda ash. The process is simple and feasible, and ammonia and carbon dioxide can be recycled and reused, making the entire process a large cycle process, in line with the concept of green environmental protection, and recrystallization. The preparation of barium carbonate from stone provides a new production process.

New generation techniques are emerging in museum exhibitions. These technologies include advanced technologies such as 3D animation, VR/augmented reality, robots, artificial intelligence, and face reconstruction. Museums undertake large projects where different disciplines work together harmoniously.The use of face reconstruction and artificial intelligence in New Generation Museum Projects is quite common around the world. In the post-truth era, museums, in order to maintain their identities, use artificial intelligence to reformat their archaeological findings by identifying them.Museum collections use facial recognition using the face reconstruction technique. Collections have become new interactive presentations that speak to visitors simultaneously with facial expressions, sound, and movement effects, directing them, and calling themselves "bugs." Even individuals freely participate in the experience of these museum works. Technology will continue to bring us new developments beyond the reality of three-dimensional, five-sensory reality outside museum showcases.Are the museums still the home of source of inspiration? Are they still evaluated again and again like former, or else are they place which have old, broken-down ruins, hovels or shambles? In this article, we try to find an answer for these questions. In 2024, the year which advancement of technology is at a good point, museums exhibitions are places which new technological developments are used in museums. With this purpose, increase in the number of new projects in museums is seen. A lot of areas of profession of different disciplines is obliged to work together.

The purpose of this paper is the brief exploration of the paradigms- models of accounting information processing. The classic paradigm of batch accounting, which has its origins in Luca Pacioli, is currently subject to the concerted assault of new technologies. We are witnessing a period of technological transformations and in the economic-legal environment with a major impact on accounting, the theory and practice of information systems of entity accounting. How could we describe the changes to the accounting of companies, entities? We are aware of the difficulties of penciling in the multiple trends that influence the organization of entity accounting. Accounting standardizers, public accounting regulatory bodies, accounting professionals, members of academic bodies in universities - we are all facing new perspectives of the development of Accounting, but also new challenges. The classic flows of the processing of identifiable data are transformed by the new provisions of the legal regulatory framework.

The untimely adoption of modern business practice through technological innovation has hindered service quality, customers’ satisfaction and the general growth of Micro finance banks in Nigeria. The study examined the effect of service innovation which consist of New Service Concept, New Service Process, and New Technology on customer satisfaction of selected micro finance banks in Ogun state Nigeria. The study adopted a cross- sectional survey research design with the aid of structured questionnaire which enabled the researcher to obtain firsthand information from the respondents. The population for this study is the customers of Micro Finance banks (MBF) in Ogun State in which (17) microfinance banks customers were conveniently selected for the survey. Due to the infinite nature of the population (MFBs Bank Customers) the study adopted a sample determination model by Cochran (1977) which is mainly used for an infinite population of this nature to arrive at the sample size of (384) respondents. The data collected was analysed using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM 4.0). The findings of the study revealed that all the hypotheses (H1, H2, H3, and H4) are accepted, indicating that each of the independent variable dimensions has significant effect on the dependent variable. That’s new service concept has significant effect on customers satisfaction of MFBs. The study concluded that the three dimensions of service innovation, namely New Service Concept, New Service Process, and New Technology, had a positive and substantial influence on customer satisfaction among the selected micro finance banks in Nigeria. Therefore, the study recommended that the management of microfinance banks in Ogun state should constantly adopt service innovation dimensions to outperform competitors in order to increase their customer satisfactions.

Abstract Radiation‐induced heart disease (RIHD) is a heterogeneous, delayed, and potentially fatal adverse reaction to radiation that can damage all structures of the heart, including the pericardium, myocardium, coronary arteries, valves, and conduction system, leading to a series of diseases. Acute and chronic disease processes play a role in the development of RIHD, the onset times of which range from months to decades. However, the clinical manifestations of RIHD are usually insidious, overlap with several other diseases, and lack specificity. Cardiovascular imaging is essential for early diagnosis, follow‐up, and outcome assessment in patients with RIHD. This review first describes the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations of RIHD before providing an overview of the practical approaches and research advances in multimodal cardiovascular imaging in patients with RIHD, including echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and nuclear medicine, and cardiac computed tomography (CT). Then, the value of new cardiac imaging assessments for the early diagnosis of RIHD is described, particularly with relation to speckle‐tracking echocardiography, extracellular volume fraction assessment as a quantitative CMR technique, CMR myocardial strain assessment, positron emission tomography‐CT myocardial perfusion imaging, CT‐ECV, and CT strain assessment, amongst others. In addition, the advantages and disadvantages of each screening technique are compared with the aim of better guiding the follow‐up and diagnosis of subclinical RIHD and preventing cardiovascular events.

An 80‐years‐old patient with permanent atrial fibrillation and symptomatic, paroxysmal atrioventricular blocks (AVBs) underwent leadless pacemaker (L‐PM) implantation. Seven years after implantation, as a consequence of a progression of the AVB towards a persistent form, resulting in an increased need for pacing, he developed a pacing‐induced cardiomyopathy. He then underwent a successful upgrade from L‐PM to a transvenous pacemaker (T‐PM) with left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP). The L‐PM did not interfere with the T‐PM and was turned off and abandoned. One month after the upgrading the patient showed a significant improvement in cardiac function and functional capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article, the gradual liberalization of trade in the globalized world, along with the increase of competition and organizations, the extension of transportation routes has brought forward the speed factor. In today's globalized world, the economy is changing direction very quickly. First of all these companies are in favor of achieving this success by reducing losses and transportation costs in order to increase customer satisfaction. All this depends on the proper construction of the supply chain. One of the main objectives of the article is the importance of effective supply chain strategies to reduce cost and improve service level, and to deliver to customers at low cost and on time according to the taste and demand of the consumer from their interactions at different levels in the supply chain. In the article, was discussed the importance of increasing the socio-economic development of Nakhchivan MR, attracting it to the trade cycle by effectively using its favorable geographical advantages and existing potential, expanding international economic relations with foreign countries with a systematic approach to the supply chain, and achieving customer satisfaction. In the research work, the study of the modern state of foreign trade and supply chain logistics services and the creation of logistics centers in the Autonomous Republic, the study of problems and the conduct of work in this direction were set and investigated as a goal. One of the main goals of the implemented policy is to ensure timely and quality delivery of raw materials and processed products by means of transit freight. In the scientific article, the complex and systematic measures implemented in the direction of the development of the logistics service sector, private issue of accelerating the development of the division, creating favorable conditions for the development of entrepreneurship in the region, creating a business environment, and increasing the export potential were also investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Method Results Conclusion This study addresses the limitations of existing interventions for depression, such as a deficit‐oriented focus, overlooking the utilization of positive elements such as nature, and neglecting the incorporation of group effects. The present feasibility study examines FlowVR, a resource‐oriented, nature‐inspired virtual reality (VR)‐based group therapy. Previously tested individually in a pilot study for non‐clinical participants, FlowVR has demonstrated positive effects on depressive symptoms. This study assesses the impact and safety of FlowVR in a group setting within a clinical sample using a one‐armed study design.Forty‐two inpatients and day patients with depression were recruited. Before and after the FlowVR intervention period of 4 weeks (two sessions per week), depressive symptoms were assessed (Beck Depression Inventory‐II; BDI). Symptomatology (i.e., depressive symptoms), depression‐associated variables (i.e., self‐efficacy), intervention‐specific variables (feeling of flow), and VR‐specific variables (simulator sickness) were assessed before and after each session.Linear mixed effect models showed that symptomatology (depression, negative affect, current anxiety), depression‐associated constructs (self‐efficacy, motivation), and intervention‐specific variables (flow) improved over the course of the sessions. No variable deteriorated more in one session compared to any other session. The lasso regression identified five potential predictors for the change in depression (BDI‐II), yet these could not be validated in a subsequent linear regression analysis.To conclude, FlowVR had the hypothesized positive impact over the course of the sessions, showing, for example, improvements in symptomatology. The sessions have demonstrated safety with no notable deteriorations. Therefore, FlowVR is deemed safe for clinical patients and group settings. However, further research is needed to explore predictors for the change in depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precision agriculture is the use and application of new technologies in big and small surface units, taking into account the diversity of the soil, the environmental environment and the needs of the plants in order to manage and optimize the application of inputs (seeds, fertilizers, phytosanitary products, irrigation...) to obtain profitable, quality and environmentally friendly production. About 20 years ago or so, applications of the GPS system (Global Positioning System) were achieved in agriculture to obtain the position using coordinates and the production obtained at each of those points. With the preparation of this data, the first yield maps were represented, and the use of these new systems began to be called "Precision Agriculture." In recent years, with technological advances in computing and new communication networks, very important advances have been obtained, being able to control positioning with errors of less than 1 meter, through DGPS and GIS (Geographic Information Systems). This technology in Cuba is in a completely experimental phase, but it is a fact that performance maps are being obtained and this information can be used by equipment that can be mounted on tractors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Bacterial biofilms create a challenge in the treatment of prosthetic joint infection (PJI), and failure to eradicate biofilms is often implicated in the high rates of recurrence. In this study, we aimed to compare the effectiveness of a novel nanoparticle ultrasonication technology on Staphylococcus aureus biofilm eradication compared to commonly used orthopedic irrigation solutions. Methods: Twenty-four sterile, titanium alloy discs were inoculated with a standardized concentration of methicillin-resistant S. aureus and cultured for seven days to allow for biofilm formation. Discs were then treated with either ultrasonicated nanoparticle therapy or irrigation with chlorhexidine gluconate, povidone-iodine or normal saline. The remaining bacteria on each surface was subsequently plated for colony-forming units of S. aureus. Bacterial eradication was reported as a decrease in CFUs relative to the control group. Mann–Whitney U tests were used to compare between groups. Results: Treatment with ultrasonicated nanoparticles resulted in a significant mean decrease in CFUs of 99.3% compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Irrigation with povidone-iodine also resulted in a significant 77.5% reduction in CFUs compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Comparisons between ultrasonicated nanoparticles and povidone-iodine demonstrated a significantly higher reduction in bacterial CFUs in the nanoparticle group (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Ultrasonicated nanoparticle were superior to commonly used bactericidal irrigation solutions in the eradication of S. aureus from a titanium surface. Future clinical studies are warranted to evaluate this ultrsonication technology in the treatment of PJI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) can significantly benefit the construction sector, improving productivity, efficiency, collaborative efforts, and product quality while promoting safety and sustainability. However, research on applying 4IR technologies in construction is scarce in developing countries. It is crucial to understand the ability of construction companies to adopt new technologies and identify factors influencing the success of technology implementation. In this study, a questionnaire-based survey was conducted with construction professionals to evaluate the level of technological development of the construction market in an emerging economy, assess the potential for innovation implementation, and identify factors that might influence technological development. The results showed that most innovations are in the early stages of implementation in the construction sector, and their adoption tends to occur differently, depending on the size of the company and the stage of the construction lifecycle in which they operate. Furthermore, technologies tend to be progressively adopted and driven by virtualization technologies. This article presents a framework to assist in decision-making regarding the adoption of 4IR technologies at different phases of the lifecycle of construction projects and identifies the potential barriers and promoters of this adoption in the analyzed context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the licensing decision of a non-producer innovator with a new technology that enables the manufacture of a saleable product. The technology is licensed and each user privately knows its innovation-related production cost, whereas the licensor only knows, with a certain probability, that this cost may be low (the user is efficient) or high (the user is inefficient). When a single licence is granted through separating contracts, only the contract intended for the inefficient user involves a per-unit royalty, but when two licences are granted through separating contracts, the contracts intended for the inefficient and efficient users both feature a per-unit royalty. However, screening is less likely as the number of licences increases, to the point that the licensor does not screen users when granting three licences. Additionally, whereas the diffusion of the innovation is socially insufficient under symmetric information, with asymmetric information it may be socially optimal. Finally, when licensing with contracts involving an ad-valorem royalty is also feasible the licensor finds it less attractive than licensing with a per-unit royalty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The common causes of rectovaginal fistula include obstetric trauma, local infection, and rectal surgery, while rectovaginal fistula following hemorrhoid surgery is extremely rare. Rectovaginal fistulae (RVF) rarely heal without intervention. Surgical treatment is usually performed, but the optimal surgical method remains controversial. The patient was a 37-year-old woman who was transferred to our hospital due to an unsuccessful repair of a rectovaginal fistula after hemorrhoid surgery in a local hospital. The next day after admission, she had prophylactic ileostomy, fecal diversion and combined treatment with cephalosporin antibiotic to create a clean postoperative area. However, there was still fecal outflow from the vagina, with no significant reduction in excretion compared to previous surgery. Digestive endoscopy confirmed a failure of the repair for rectovaginal fistula. Therefore, preventive ileostomy was continued to reduce the accumulation of bacteria in the fistula and control the inflammation. After 8 weeks, the endoscopic fistula inflammation disappeared, and the condition of endoscopic surgery was considered to be mature. Subsequently, a new surgical method combining transanal endoscopy and transvaginal endoscopy was performed. After 12 weeks of surgery, a follow-up endoscopic examination showed that the fistula had been repaired and healed. During the 1-year follow-up, no serious complication was encountered, no recurrence was found, and the repair effect was satisfactory. In conclusion, a new technique combining transanal endoscopy and transvaginal endoscopy can effectively be used for the surgical repair of rectovaginal fistula after a hemorrhoid operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the economic advantages of introducing new agricultural technologies into the production system, their rate of adoption in Morocco remains relatively low. The objective of this article is to study the factors that hinder the adoption of these new technologies. We address the case of the recommended fertilizer doses (RFD). The study employs a probit model with a stratified random sampling approach.The data were collected from 297 farmers in the Casablanca-Settat region using a face-to-face interview method and analyzed through R software. The results of the study show that the main barriers are related to access to information and bank credit, government incentive, production orientation, distance to the market as well as age, and level of education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New technology has profoundly influenced the world of work. The use of technology brings advantages for all -- employers, workers and their representatives -- but also some risks and hazards for working people. Despite technological development, workers still need effective protection that will ensure safety and sustainable development. The legal framework for this protection, both at European and national levels, is still under construction. An important role in filling the regulatory gap may be also played by collective bargaining. Moreover, modern technologies open up new possibilities for social partners to build their capacity and organize the process of negotiations. However, collective bargaining in the area of tech-based work remains in statu nascendi. This article analyses the need for and the advantages of collective protection in tech-based employment, its role in improving working standards and the influence of new technology on industrial relations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Mechanics is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Mechanics Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Background Home healthcare services are increasingly utilizing novel technologies to enhance quality and efficiency of caregiving, to reduce workloads and compensate for expected labor shortages in the future due to ageing populations. However, rapid, ongoing implementation of new technologies may demand considerable adaptation for employees. The objective of this study was to prospectively examine associations of newly introduced work technologies with neck pain complaints. Methods With a nationally representative prospective sample of home-care workers in Norway (N = 887), we estimated effects of 1) introducing new technologies and 2) the appraised quality of training during implementation on neck pain eight months after. Results A majority of employees reported new technologies having been introduced the previous 12 months (73.8%). This was not by itself associated with neck pain. However, perceived high quality of training was associated with less subsequent neck pain, also after adjustment for job demands and job control. The strongest effect was seen for “very good” versus “very poor” quality training (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.17,0.71, in the fully adjusted model). Cross-lagged path analyses ruled out potential reverse causation stemming from the influence of pain on needs for or appraisals of training. Conclusion The present findings suggest the introduction of new work technologies has a significant impact on home-care workers’ health, depending on the quality of training during implementation. This highlights the need to include training programs in risk assessments when implementing new technologies.

The need to ensure food security and promote environmental sustainability has led to a transformative period in agriculture. This period is characterized by the use of novel technology, which provides solutions that effectively address ecological concerns while also ensuring economic viability. Emerging technologies, such as precision farming enabled by drones, sensor-based monitoring systems and genetic editing techniques that result in drought-resistant crops, are significantly changing the agricultural sector. The integration of data analytics and machine learning algorithms is transforming supply chain management and enhancing the capabilities of predictive analytics in the context of crop diseases. Technological interventions serve to optimize efficiency and minimize the adverse ecological effects associated with farming, promoting the goals of sustainable agriculture. However, it is important to carefully address ethical and socio-economic considerations, including accessibility and data privacy, to manage these effects effectively. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the contributions of emerging technology to sustainable agriculture, evaluate its constraints, and suggest a comprehensive framework for its ethical and equitable integration. Communication technology has also impacted the agricultural sector, particularly with the increased use of connected devices. Artificial intelligence and deep learning advancements make processing collected data faster and more efficient, leading to more sustainable agricultural production using free, open-source software and sensor technology solutions. This technology enhances land optimization and boosts agricultural productivity, making sustainable farming practices more viable for both large and small-scale farmers. Our bibliometric analysis indicates a notable increase in interest in integrating sustainable agricultural methods with new technologies, particularly since 2018. It also revealed a strong link between precision agriculture, smart farming, machine learning, and the Internet of Things. However, awareness of technology is not very prevalent in the Asian region, especially among small-scale farmers. As a result, excessive usage of agricultural resources and wastage bring many adverse repercussions, and it's a high constraint to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Specific situational pictures are interfaces centralising continuously updated information about the situation at the external borders of the EU and dedicated to being shared with third countries. Frontex operates them and shares them through working agreements with third countries. On the basis of the information received, third countries may engage in refoulement contrary to European and international law, for which the responsibility of Frontex as the sharer of critical information must be examined. Building upon the law of non-contractual liability of the EU, this paper aims at pinpointing the technical characteristics of specific situational pictures that hamper holding Frontex responsible for the refoulements carried out by third countries on the basis of information shared. This paper argues that the principle of non-refoulement in EU law contains the obligation not to share information susceptible of leading to refoulement. Compensating the damage of people undergoing refoulement by third countries informed by specific situational pictures operated by Frontex is challenging, as the multiplicity of actors, the automation of data updates and the lack of transparency of these situational pictures blurs the lines of the attribution of responsibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of applying digital learning through the use of augmented reality technology in university education on student learning outcomes. The research strategy and design were developed with the aim of answering the following research questions: Do different forms of active learning using augmented reality (AR) influence student knowledge?; Is it possible to assess the impact of AR implementation in teaching on the quality of learning outcomes? The main goal of his research is to identify the information objects Situated, Games, and Research within the Active Learning information package and, based on them, examine and determine the existence, relationship, and intensity of connections of the created information construct Knowledge. The research was conducted through the application of an experimental technique with incorporated survey and knowledge test methods on a sample of 270 participants, in 3 groups of 90 students each. Knowledge was examined through initial tests and final tests for each form of the conducted experiment: Situated, Games, and Research. The obtained results were processed using statistical methods of calculating correlation coefficients and factor analysis. The results indicate that students taught through all forms of AR active learning achieve a statistically significantly higher level of knowledge, thus confirming the hypothesis. In conclusion, the obtained research results provide a basis for further research using the described methodology and the further development of educational application solutions based on new AR technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case study examines digital health service provider Doctorola's business strategy, competitive advantage, and challenges. The case is developed primarily on secondary sources, e.g., journal articles, newspapers, and authentic websites. The case presents the journey of the first online-based doctor appointment business - Doctorola, and its subsequent development as a full-fledged e-health service delivery provider. The case finds that Doctorola has designed effective service system to deliver patient centric services and captures a significant market share. This case shows its' service evolution and illustrates the challenges it would face in the market to sustain in digital health market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The foundation of our educational system today is technology-based. Over time, technology has transformed how students learn and how teachers impart knowledge. Further, technology provides a platform for everyone to study and learn throughout their lives. Many platforms and options are available to expand one's knowledge in a particular area of interest. National Technology Programme for Enhanced Learning (NPTEL) is one such venture. This teaching case will give detailed information about NTPEL, its initiatives and its progress. The case study also elucidates the challenges that are deterrents to the usage of NPTEL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drone visuals are rapidly becoming part of our sociocultural imaginaries, generating distinct images that differ from traditional visual conventions and producing unexpected perspectives of the world that reveal hidden aspects of our surroundings. Despite the growing use of camera-laden drones in a range of commercial and non-commercial activities, to date, little scholarly attention has been paid to the semiotics of drone visuals. This article is the first to draw specific attention to the compositional structure of drone visuals, combining social semiotic analysis with ethnographic insights to assess how they are changing the way we think about the world. Exploring drone hobbyists' and developers' perspectives on drone usage and the visuals they generate, the authors identify and examine three frequently occurring characteristics of drone visuals: top-down views, 360-degree panoramic views and 'classic' landscape perspectives. The critical analysis of these peculiarities leads them to argue for the potential of these innovative visions to reshape our visual culture. In their conclusion, the authors aim to open a conversation about the way technological advancements mark important sociocultural changes in sense-making processes, geographical imaginations and everyday life experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is a new field of science that produces extremely small structures from organic or inorganic materials. These nanoparticles can be used in many fields: medicine, foods, cosmetics, clothing, constructions, furniture, not only in the making of electronics or in the automotive industry. Because of their special properties nanoparticles, also known as nanomaterials, can revolutionize all fields in which they are used. But the domain in which they can bring the most important benefits for human life is medicine. Nanoparticles can be used in the medicine field in the production of drugs and vaccines, and also in diagnostic and investigative tools, etc. Nanomaterials are used with great success in imaging and in the construction of medical devices. Many European citizens have legitimate concerns about the safe use of nanoparticles in medicines. All these concerns can be put aside only through thoroughly testing all the medicines that contain nanoparticles before they will be put on the market for general use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The new AI based conversational chatbot, ChatGPT, launched in November 2022, is causing a stir. There are many opinions about this being a ‘threat or a promise,’ and thus it is important to understand what has been said about this tool and, based on the growing literature that has emerged on the subject, demystify its effective impact on society. To analyse this impact, a systematic literature review with the support of the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis protocol was used. The data, scientific documents, were collected using the main scientific databases – SCOPUS and Web of Science – and the results were presented based on a bibliometric and thematic exploration of content. The main findings indicate that people are increasingly using this chatbot in more diverse areas. Therefore, this study contributes at the practical level, aiming to enlighten people in general – both in professional and personal life – about this tool and its impacts. Also, it contributes at the theoretical level, which involves expanding understanding and elucidation of the impacts of ChatGPT in different areas of study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, however, things have turned around, and women have maintained their positions as prominent figures and sources of entrepreneurial inspiration. Women nowadays are multi-talented; they have positions in academia, the classroom, politics, software development, business management, banking, civil service, the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), and more. Female company owners are branching out from one kind of enterprise to another. Typically, they would be found in the beauty product, salon, shop, restaurant, etc. industries. Nevertheless, things are starting to change as more and more women are venturing into technical fields, professional services, industry, and the food and beverage sector. The emphasis of women in bygone eras was on the family, and they were married off at a young age. The current research primarily focuses on the difficulties encountered by female entrepreneurs, namely the obstacles and possibilities these women encounter, as a result of the general public's lack of understanding about technical advancements, marketing strategies, etc. The study's goals were to(1) determine the socioeconomic status of the population, (2) determine the variables that encourage women to start their own businesses, (3) catalog the difficulties and opportunities faced by female entrepreneurs in the Kanyakumari District, and(4) draw conclusions about these topics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social media marketing constantly evolves, and teaching in this dynamic discipline can be challenging. This commentary provides a brief overview of the emergence and evolution of social media marketing in the curriculum. We address emerging best practices in teaching, such as educators cultivating industry relationships and using certifications in the curriculum. We discuss the emerging trend of using stackable certificates. We conclude with a brief review of the emphasis the marketing education journals have placed on integrating technology. We posit that with the newest technology, students need to be taught how to use due to the benefits but understand the potential risks associated with these new technologies, such as artificial intelligence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual reality (VR) is one of the most innovative technologies that allows the development of a computerised, three-dimensional image that imitates reality. With this solution, it is possible to show different objects and even simulate a sequence of actions. The application of virtual reality technology in industries with high accident rates, such as mining and construction, contributes to sustainability by enhancing occupational health and safety (OHS) practices. However, it should be emphasised that the application of VR in these industries is much broader and includes aspects such as visualisation, monitoring and design. This research contributes to sustainability by identifying research gaps, providing an in-depth systematic review of the use of virtual reality technology and outlining the potential of VR technology to advance safety practices in mining and construction, thereby promoting the well-being of workers, reducing accidents and minimising negative environmental impacts associated with workplace incidents. Based on the analyses performed, the future of VR technology for improving work processes in terms of the safety, efficiency and profitability of implementation is outlined. The results of this study provide a comprehensive framework for identifying research gaps in this area to advance research in the academic community and to improve safety in mining and construction workplaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article addresses the international law of ocean nuclear power plants (ONPPs) with a particular focus on the Arctic. Encompassing norms under the law of the sea, maritime law, environmental law, nuclear energy law and humanitarian law, the article discusses how existing fundamental legal regulations apply to ONPPs in the Arctic. Additionally, the legal role of some relevant institutions, such as the International Atomic Energy Agency, the International Maritime Organization, and the Arctic Council, is considered. While the military nuclearisation of the Arctic has been the subject of much scholarly concern, the civil nuclearisation has not – at least not from an international law perspective. International law provides States with a considerable degree of freedom when it comes to the development and deployment of ONPPs, but there are several challenges and legal gaps, not least regarding special legal regulations for the Arctic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Home healthcare services are increasingly utilizing novel technologies to enhance quality and efficiency of caregiving, to reduce workloads and compensate for expected labor shortages in the future due to ageing populations. However, rapid, ongoing implementation of new technologies may demand considerable adaptation for employees. The objective of this study was to prospectively examine associations of newly introduced work technologies with neck pain complaints. Methods: With a nationally representative prospective sample of home-care workers in Norway (N = 887), we estimated effects of 1) introducing new technologies and 2) the appraised quality of training during implementation on neck pain eight months after. Results: A majority of employees reported new technologies having been introduced the previous 12 months (73.8%). This was not by itself associated with neck pain. However, perceived high quality of training was associated with less subsequent neck pain, also after adjustment for job demands and job control. The strongest effect was seen for "very good" versus "very poor" quality training (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.17,0.71, in the fully adjusted model). Cross-lagged path analyses ruled out potential reverse causation stemming from the influence of pain on needs for or appraisals of training. Conclusion: The present findings suggest the introduction of new work technologies has a significant impact on home-care workers' health, depending on the quality of training during implementation. This highlights the need to include training programs in risk assessments when implementing new technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spine surgery has witnessed remarkable advancements in technology, techniques, and patient outcomes. The future of spine surgery holds even greater promise as technological innovations continue to shape the field. This comprehensive review explores the role of various technological advancements in the future of spine surgery, focusing on robotic-assisted surgery, augmented reality and virtual reality, 3D printing and custom implants, artificial intelligence and predictive analytics, biomaterials and tissue engineering, nanotechnology, and telemedicine. Robotic-assisted surgery offers enhanced precision and improved outcomes through real-time guidance and surgical manoeuvre assistance. Augmented reality and virtual reality technologies provide valuable tools for preoperative planning, intra-operative navigation, and surgeon training. 3D printing and custom implants enable personalised treatment approaches with improved fit and alignment. Artificial intelligence and predictive analytics offer decision support, precise diagnostics, and real-time monitoring. Biomaterials and tissue engineering approaches facilitate tissue regeneration and targeted drug delivery. Nanotechnology holds promise for precise diagnostics, real-time monitoring, and targeted therapies. Telemedicine and remote monitoring enhance postoperative care and improve accessibility to specialised care. These technological advancements have the potential to revolutionise spine surgery by improving surgical outcomes, enhancing patient experiences, increasing accessibility to specialised care, and optimising healthcare delivery. However, challenges such as cost, training, regulatory approvals, privacy, and ethical considerations must be addressed for successful implementation. Future research directions include further exploration of robotic-assisted surgery, advancement of augmented reality and virtual reality technologies, development of advanced biomaterials and tissue engineering strategies, exploration of nano-materials, and ongoing evaluation of telemedicine and remote monitoring. Collaboration among surgeons, engineers, and scientists is crucial to advancing these technologies and optimising their clinical applications. In conclusion, the future of spine surgery is shaped by technological advancements that offer improved precision, personalised treatment approaches, and enhanced patient outcomes. While challenges exist, ongoing research and innovation will drive the field forward, improving patient care and advancing the field of spine surgery as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the relationship between firm innovation and firm productivity in five Central American countries, namely, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, through the estimation technique of propensity score matching (PSM). Firm innovation is defined based on the introduction of a significantly new product or a significant new technology. Following the literature, the study adopted two measurements of productivity: (i) natural logarithm of annual sales divided by the number of permanent employees and (ii) by estimating total factor productivity (TFP). Using the natural logarithm of annual sales divided by the number of permanent employees' measure of productivity, the study established that firms that did not introduce significantly new products in the last 3 years are 23.3% less productive than firms that introduce significantly new products. Similarly, firms that did not introduce new technology in the past 3 years are 25.2% less productive than firms that introduced significantly improved technology. From the TFP measure of productivity, the study further confirms that firms that introduced significantly new products in the last 3 years are 32.3% more productive. Furthermore, the study identified that firm productivity is positively and significantly affected by the availability of a line of credit to firms through its interaction with firm innovation. Our key policy recommendation is that firm innovation (product or methods) should be the fundamental basis for extending credit or financial support to the firms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fierce market rivalry between companies has forced a need to search for new ways of competing. One such way is to innovate the company's business model innovation with the use of new technologies. In order to do so, companies often take advantage of relationships with different market actors. Although the existing literature provides some general insight on this matter, there is still a significant research gap concerning the use of specific market actors by companies characterized by BMI based on new technologies. The aim of the paper is to assess the role of relationships developed by companies characterized by BMI based on new technologies with different types of entities. In order to achieve the aim of the paper, it was decided to perform both qualitative and quantitative research. For the qualitative research, a focus study with 12 participants was performed, and for the quantitative study, a computer-assisted telephone interview (CATI) with representatives from 483 companies was carried out. The data collection method included not only primary sources (interviews with managers) but secondary sources (e.g., company materials) as well. The main conclusion drawn from the presented research is that it is beneficial (in terms of technology as well as performance indicators — profits, sales, market share, and ROI) for companies characterized with BMI based on new technologies to develop relationships with various types of entities. These various types should not only include suppliers or buyers, but competitors, the company's internal and external units, universities and research centers, financing agencies, and government or local government administration as well. The results presented in the paper add significant value to the existing knowledge. Not only is the paper one of a few which touch on the matter of relationships developed by companies characterized by BMI based on new technologies, it also provides new information. It adds a new block to the theories of open innovation and resource-based view. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This publication provides information on the status of oyster fisheries and aquaculture in Florida as well as general information about how oysters are grown in agricultural and restoration systems. It then introduces a series of technologies that have been developed in other US states and in other countries, strategies that may have utility in Florida. Finally, it covers some specifics of the permitting process as it relates to oyster aquaculture in Florida.

The new AI based conversational chatbot, ChatGPT, launched in November 2022, is causing a stir. There are many opinions about this being a ‘threat or a promise,’ and thus it is important to understand what has been said about this tool and, based on the growing literature that has emerged on the subject, demystify its effective impact on society. To analyse this impact, a systematic literature review with the support of the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis protocol was used. The data, scientific documents, were collected using the main scientific databases – SCOPUS and Web of Science – and the results were presented based on a bibliometric and thematic exploration of content. The main findings indicate that people are increasingly using this chatbot in more diverse areas. Therefore, this study contributes at the practical level, aiming to enlighten people in general – both in professional and personal life – about this tool and its impacts. Also, it contributes at the theoretical level, which involves expanding understanding and elucidation of the impacts of ChatGPT in different areas of study.