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1 – 10 of over 62000
Article
Publication date: 29 March 2013

'Niran Adetoro and Opeyemi Sodipe

Emerging technologies are shaping the way we use information and undergraduates are early adopters of technology; however the purpose of their use of these devices has been of…

437

Abstract

Purpose

Emerging technologies are shaping the way we use information and undergraduates are early adopters of technology; however the purpose of their use of these devices has been of concern. The purpose of this paper is to examine use of internet capable handheld devices among Information Resources Management (IRM) undergraduates at Babcock University, Ilisan, Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Non‐experimental ex post facto design was adopted for the study. Total enumeration was used to capture 220 IRM undergraduates. Using an adapted ECAR study, six questionnaire with reliability value (x=0.89) were administered; all questionnaires administered were retrieved and used for the study.

Findings

The study revealed that the majority (90 per cent) own handheld devices, used mainly for social networking, checking of information, instant messaging and e‐mails. Most of the students (70 per cent) are frequent users of their devices for internet activities, expending about 2‐100 h on a weekly basis. Factors which include slow network connection, limited access, and other ways of internet access, battery life and cost hinder use of the internet via handheld devices.

Originality/value

The use of internet capable mobile technology is crucial in engaging higher education students.

Details

Library Hi Tech News, vol. 30 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0741-9058

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 January 1997

Jill Gladstone and Sue Sutherland

Recent developments in medical treatments have resulted in the increased use of infusion devices for the administration of highly potent drugs. Drug administration is one of the…

Abstract

Recent developments in medical treatments have resulted in the increased use of infusion devices for the administration of highly potent drugs. Drug administration is one of the highest risk areas of clinical practice and infusion devices are associated with a substantial number of adverse drug events. Locally, there was a perception that adverse drug events involving infusion devices appeared to be increasing, and there was anecdotal evidence to suggest that the available number of devices was inadequate to meet the increasing demand. A two‐part, observational audit, carried out in an acute district general hospital, was used to identify weak areas in the systems associated with the use of infusion devices and to implement actions to rectify the weaknesses and consequently reduce the risk to patients and staff.

Details

Journal of Clinical Effectiveness, vol. 2 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1361-5874

Article
Publication date: 1 December 2002

Yulan Zheng, John Atkinson and Russ Sion

This paper presents results of work aimed at characterising the zero offset stability in novel thick film strain gauges. The devices studied are z‐axis (k33) load sensors…

Abstract

This paper presents results of work aimed at characterising the zero offset stability in novel thick film strain gauges. The devices studied are z‐axis (k33) load sensors fabricated on insulated stainless steel substrates and include examples of novel commercially developed force sensors. Devices loaded with compressive strains using a purpose designed test jig were found to exhibit a significant zero offset shift, which is negative up to a certain level (typically 1,000 micro strains) and then increasingly positive when strained beyond this point. Repeated cycles of loading then produced a certain level of stability until the previous maximum value of applied strain was exceeded. Temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) measurements showed the devices to exhibit characteristics that depend significantly on the device geometry. The TCR was found to increase positively with increasing device thickness and surface area. The effect of overglazing the devices was found to decrease the TCR.

Details

Microelectronics International, vol. 19 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1356-5362

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 1992

B.P. Richards, P. Burton and P.K. Footner

Although the use of ultrasonic agitation on quartz crystal devices during PCB cleaning has long been suspected to be detrimental, little or no data exist to substantiate or…

Abstract

Although the use of ultrasonic agitation on quartz crystal devices during PCB cleaning has long been suspected to be detrimental, little or no data exist to substantiate or quantify the resultant effects. This paper summarises the results of a limited study into these effects for a range of quartz crystal devices, using both CFC and aqueous solvents. The variations with exposure time, and the types and mechanisms of failure are discussed. The results are encouraging and suggest that, although these devices are more susceptible to damage than ICs, once manufacturing defects have been screened out they will withstand ultrasonic exposure without deleterious effects for periods several times longer than those used for cleaning PCBs.

Details

Circuit World, vol. 18 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0305-6120

Article
Publication date: 27 April 2010

Adam Cohen, Richard Chen, Uri Frodis, Ming‐Ting Wu and Chris Folk

The purpose of this paper is to familiarize the reader with the capabilities of EFAB technology, a unique additive manufacturing process which yields fully assembled, functional…

2706

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to familiarize the reader with the capabilities of EFAB technology, a unique additive manufacturing process which yields fully assembled, functional mechanisms from metal on the micro to millimeter scale, and applications in medical devices.

Design/methodology/approach

The process is based on multi‐layer electrodeposition and planarization of at least two metals: one structural and one sacrificial. After a period of initial commercial development, it was scaled up from a prototyping‐only to a production process, and biocompatible metals were developed for medical applications.

Findings

The process yields complex, functional metal micro‐components and mechanisms with tight tolerances from biocompatible metals, in low‐high production volume.

Practical implications

The process described has multiple commercial applications, including minimally invasive medical instruments and implants, probes for semiconductor testing, military fuzing and inertial sensing devices, millimeter wave components, and microfluidic devices.

Originality/value

The process described in this paper is unusual among additive fabrication processes in being able to manufacture in high volume, and in its ability to produce devices with microscale features. It is one of only a few additive manufacturing processes that can produce metal parts or multi‐component mechanisms.

Details

Rapid Prototyping Journal, vol. 16 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1355-2546

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 February 2008

Richard Piggin and Vivek Hajarnavis

This paper aims to propose a model for the provision of EtherNet/IP device‐specific function blocks by discrete industry device vendors and to outline how multi‐vendor network…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a model for the provision of EtherNet/IP device‐specific function blocks by discrete industry device vendors and to outline how multi‐vendor network environments can benefit from the use of function block programming to encapsulate code for configuring communication, diagnostics and visualisation tools.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach makes use of function blocks to facilitate simpler use of the EtherNet/IP protocol. The EtherNet/IP messaging mechanisms are described, along with the methodology for configuring communication for both time‐critical and non‐time‐critical messaging, including device‐specific status and diagnostic data. The same approach is utilised for communication to visualisation systems.

Findings

Validation of the model was found to make data transfer between controller and device easier and faster, owing to a reduction in the number of operations a programmer was required to implement. Implementation time was found to be just 6.25 per cent of that needed to achieve the same functionality without the use of function blocks.

Practical implications

The use of function blocks to describe EtherNet/IP communication was tested with a commercial product in an application environment, and subsequently adopted by multiple vendors. A reduction in technical support was noted owing to the use of identical interfaces for multiple device instances. With complete device functionality described and readily available to the end‐user, greater device functionality is utilised and more often may otherwise not have been implemented for time, cost, or complexity reasons.

Originality/value

In the discrete industry, it is uncommon for device vendors to provide device‐specific function blocks describing network communication interfaces and functionality, since they reside in the controller, not the device. This research presents a novel method that provides a consistent, yet flexible approach for the configuration of EtherNet/IP communication for differing devices from multiple vendors within a controller.

Details

Assembly Automation, vol. 28 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-5154

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 September 2020

Fenio Annansingh

Currently, one of the most significant challenges organizations face is that corporate data is being delivered to mobile devices that are not managed by the information technology…

882

Abstract

Purpose

Currently, one of the most significant challenges organizations face is that corporate data is being delivered to mobile devices that are not managed by the information technology department. This has security implications regarding knowledge leakage, data theft, and regulatory compliance. With these unmanaged devices, companies have less control and visibility, and fewer mitigation options when protecting against the risks of cyber-attacks. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate how millennials' use of personal mobile devices for work contributes to increased exposure to cyber-attacks and, consequently, security and knowledge leakage risks.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used a mixed-method approach by using survey questionnaires to elicit the views of millennials regarding the cybersecurity risks associated with bring your own device policies and practices. Interviews were done with security personnel. Data analysis consisted of descriptive analysis and open coding.

Findings

The results indicate that millennials expect to have ready access to technology and social media at all times, irrespective of security and privacy concerns. Companies also need to improve and enforce bring your own device policies and practices to mitigate against knowledge leakage and security risks. Millennials increasingly see the use of personal devices as a right and not a convenience. They are expecting security measures to be more seamless within the full user experience.

Originality/value

This paper can help organizations and millennials to understand the security risks entering the workforce if the threats of using privately owned devices on the job are ignored and to improve organizational performance.

Details

Journal of Business Strategy, vol. 42 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0275-6668

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 17 November 2023

Zainab Shahzadi Javid, Zohra Nazeer, Rozina Sewani and Abdullah Laghari

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of using mobile devices as an instructional tool on teachers' creativity and to promote their usage as instructional tools…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of using mobile devices as an instructional tool on teachers' creativity and to promote their usage as instructional tools in educational settings. The research also studies the perceptions of teachers on the effect of using mobile devices as an instructional tool on their creativity and what features of mobile devices are believed to help in terms of enhancing their creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative inquiry used an interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) method for inspecting the professional capabilities of Pakistan's primary and secondary school teachers. Data were gathered from nine individuals through interviews. Three themes regarding creativity emerged from the study data.

Findings

It is found that the use of mobile devices as a teaching tool significantly increases teachers' creativity by enabling them to manifest their creativity and explore different pedagogical vistas in which they can use a wide variety of instructional resources and tools. Using mobile devices as a teaching tool improved three skills: motivation, self-confidence and communication skills. Mobile applications, cameras and portability of these devices are among the features that teachers considered to have encouraged their creativity.

Research limitations/implications

Finding the obstacles and difficulties teachers have while utilizing these tools to demonstrate their creativity may be valuable for future studies. First, because respondents were teachers from elementary and secondary classes, the population was not entirely homogenous, even though they had adequate help. Second, only semi-structured interviews were utilized for data gathering in this study. Further data collection methods, including observational research or participant-written reflective diaries, are thought to have been preferred.

Practical implications

For future research, it may be interesting to determine whether the results of this study can be applied to other demographic groups. Based on this study, it is also recommended to conduct a quantitative study to know teachers' perceptions of the impact of these devices on creativity, since these studies can have promising results for teachers.

Social implications

Through the use of various materials, tools and activities, these devices provide several distinctive teaching alternatives. Because of this, using it as a teaching tool gives teachers the ability to tailor courses to a range of learner types. Additionally, having easy access to a multitude of online resources and the capacity to interact with others helped in ideation. The teachers experienced feelings of motivation, self-confidence and a desire to impart information, all of which are traits of creative teachers. Based on the findings of this study, we may now think about using mobile devices in the classroom to encourage teachers' creativity.

Originality/value

The outcomes of this research indicated that teachers' creativity is strongly influenced by their use of mobile devices as instructional tools. This paper advances the understanding of teachers’ creativity by highlighting their lived experiences. This study is novel because it highlights how these devices have the potential to be used as instructional tools, which has not been highlighted by any study so far.

Details

Asian Association of Open Universities Journal, vol. 18 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1858-3431

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 September 2023

Hande Argunsah and Begum Yalcin

Biofeedback is used for regulating vestibular adaptation and balance by providing real-time stimulus to the individual during physical activities. This study aimed at (1…

Abstract

Purpose

Biofeedback is used for regulating vestibular adaptation and balance by providing real-time stimulus to the individual during physical activities. This study aimed at (1) developing a wearable device, which tracks balance, counts the number and the direction of balance losses and provides haptic biofeedback through real-time vibration stimulus (2) investigating device efficacy on an adolescent medulloblastoma patient during static and dynamic tasks.

Design/methodology/approach

A 16-year-old medulloblastoma patient used the device during 10-m walking and single-leg stance tests. The knee joint kinematics and the number and direction of balance losses were recorded for “with” and “without” biofeedback conditions.

Findings

The device helped regulate the knee joint kinematics and reduce the number of balance losses of the medulloblastoma patient. The knee joint movement pattern similarity of the control subject was highly correlated (R2 = 0.997, RMSE = 1.232). Conversely, medulloblastoma patient knee joint movement pattern similarity was relatively weak (R2 = 0.359, RMSE = 18.6) when “with” and “without” biofeedback conditions were compared. The number of balance losses decreased when the medulloblastoma patient was guided with biofeedback.

Research limitations/implications

The major limitation of this pilot study is the lack of a large and homogeneous number of participants. The medulloblastoma patient used the device while walking after she was given enough time to get used to the tactile biological feedback, so the long-term effect of the device and biofeedback guidance were not investigated. Additionally, the potential desensitization with prolonged use of the device was not evaluated.

Practical implications

Biofeedback reduced the number of balance losses; additionally, the knee joint movement pattern was regulated during static and dynamic tasks. This device can be integrated into the physical therapy of patients with balance, vestibular and postural control impairments.

Social implications

This is compact and has an easy-to-wear design, patients, who have balance and postural control impairments, can practically use the device during their activities of daily living.

Originality/value

The device promotes physical activity adaptation and regulates gait through continuous and real-time balance control. Its design makes it simple for the user to wear it beneath clothing while using the sensor.

Details

Journal of Enabling Technologies, vol. 17 no. 3/4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-6263

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 August 2023

Chee-Hua Chin, Winnie Poh Ming Wong, Tat-Huei Cham, Jun Zhou Thong and Jill Pei-Wah Ling

This study aims to investigate how artificial intelligence (AI)-powered smart home devices affect young consumers' requirements for convenience, support, security and monitoring…

1020

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how artificial intelligence (AI)-powered smart home devices affect young consumers' requirements for convenience, support, security and monitoring, as well as their ability to advance environmental sustainability. This study also examines the variables that impact users' motivation to use AI-powered smart home devices, such as perceived value, ease of use, social presence, identity, technology security and the moderating impact of trust.

Design/methodology/approach

The responses from residents of Sarawak, Malaysia, were collected through online questionnaires. This study aimed to examine the perceptions of millennials and zillennials towards their trust and adoption of AI-powered devices. This study used a quantitative approach, and the relationships among the study constructs were analysed using partial least squares - structural equation modelling.

Findings

The present study found that perceived usefulness, ease of use and social presence were the main motivators among actual and potential users of smart home devices, especially in determining their intentions to use and actual usage. Additionally, there was a moderating effect of trust on the relationship between perceived ease of use, social presence, social identity and intention to use AI-powered devices in smart homes.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to examine the factors influencing smart technology adoption. This study provided meaningful insights on the development of strategies for the key stakeholders to enhance the adoption and usage of AI-powered smart home devices in Sarawak, one of the promising Borneo states. Additionally, this study contributed to the growing body of knowledge on the associations between technology acceptance model dimensions, intention and actual usage of smart technology, with the moderating impact of trust.

Details

Young Consumers, vol. 25 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1747-3616

Keywords

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