MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

21 pages, 688 KiB

Open AccessReview

Web3: Exploring Decentralized Technologies and Applications for the Future of Empowerment and Ownership

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Blockchains 2023, 1(2), 111-131; https://doi.org/10.3390/blockchains1020008 - 11 Dec 2023

Viewed by 880

Abstract

The emergence of the World Wide Web has revolutionized online communication, aiming to achieve global information sharing and communication. However, the current Web 2.0 architecture, which relies on centralized platforms, presents limitations such as restricted user rights, data privacy concerns, and dependence on [...] Read more.

The emergence of the World Wide Web has revolutionized online communication, aiming to achieve global information sharing and communication. However, the current Web 2.0 architecture, which relies on centralized platforms, presents limitations such as restricted user rights, data privacy concerns, and dependence on centralized institutions. Web3, as a concept describing the next evolutionary stage of the internet, offers a solution to these issues by reshaping the internet infrastructure. Web3 provides a foundation for autonomous digital experiences and drives the advancement of the digital economy. This paper offers a thorough exploration of Web3, covering its key technologies, applications, challenges, and opportunities. We begin by introducing the core technologies behind Web3, followed by an exploration of its prominent applications. Finally, we analyze the challenges faced by Web3 and discuss potential research opportunities to address these challenges in the future. In summary, this study comprehensively elaborates on Web3 and lays a solid foundation for subsequent research work, encouraging researchers to explore new frontiers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Blockchains)

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21 pages, 4706 KiB

Open AccessReview

Bitcoin and Renewable Energy Mining: A Survey

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Yusuke Tomatsu

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Wenlin Han

Blockchains 2023, 1(2), 90-110; https://doi.org/10.3390/blockchains1020007 - 07 Dec 2023

Viewed by 445

Abstract

Bitcoin, the most valuable and energy-consuming cryptocurrency, has recently been at the center of a heated debate over its environmental impact. This controversy has caught the public’s attention, prompting us to investigate the energy consumption of Bitcoin. In this paper, we have conducted [...] Read more.

Bitcoin, the most valuable and energy-consuming cryptocurrency, has recently been at the center of a heated debate over its environmental impact. This controversy has caught the public’s attention, prompting us to investigate the energy consumption of Bitcoin. In this paper, we have conducted a review of the literature on various aspects of Bitcoin mining, including its mechanisms, energy consumption, mining sites, and the potential for renewable energy use. Our findings reveal that the power consumption of Bitcoin is bound to increase with the continued adoption of the proof-of-work (PoW) consensus algorithm. Nonetheless, the growing availability of affordable renewable energy sources worldwide brings hope that Bitcoin mining will shift towards cleaner energy in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Blockchains)

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17 pages, 2423 KiB

Open AccessReview

Blockchain and Healthcare: A Critical Analysis of Progress and Challenges in the Last Five Years

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Hamed Taherdoost

Blockchains 2023, 1(2), 73-89; https://doi.org/10.3390/blockchains1020006 - 08 Nov 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 997

Abstract

Utilizing the fundamental characteristics of the decentralization, immutability, and transparency of blockchain technology, the healthcare industry has made notable advancements in incorporating it over the past five years. This review examines the progress and challenges encountered in this critical study by assessing 124 [...] Read more.

Utilizing the fundamental characteristics of the decentralization, immutability, and transparency of blockchain technology, the healthcare industry has made notable advancements in incorporating it over the past five years. This review examines the progress and challenges encountered in this critical study by assessing 124 articles published by MDPI between 2018 and the current date. Examining blockchain’s potential uses, like safe data exchange and interoperability in supply chain management and electronic health records, provides exciting new directions for the future of healthcare. Blockchain technology can greatly increase efficiency and cost-effectiveness by guaranteeing data integrity, protecting patient privacy, and reducing administrative procedures. This paper objectively evaluates blockchain’s advancement in healthcare through a thorough analysis of real-world applications and research projects. By highlighting both its advantages and disadvantages, this analysis seeks to add to the continuing conversation about how blockchain will influence the way healthcare is managed and delivered in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Blockchains)

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15 pages, 2054 KiB

Open AccessReview

Blockchain Technology Application in Security: A Systematic Review

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Nazanin Moosavi

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Hamed Taherdoost

Blockchains 2023, 1(2), 58-72; https://doi.org/10.3390/blockchains1020005 - 29 Oct 2023

Viewed by 1554

Abstract

Blockchain technology is a promising technology that attracts popularity among researchers. However, it was first introduced with digital currencies, particularly Bitcoin, but nowadays, it is also known as one of the most frequently used techniques for securing networks. This systematic review research identifies [...] Read more.

Blockchain technology is a promising technology that attracts popularity among researchers. However, it was first introduced with digital currencies, particularly Bitcoin, but nowadays, it is also known as one of the most frequently used techniques for securing networks. This systematic review research identifies studies that use blockchain for their security challenges. In addition, different fields in blockchain usage, blockchain categorization type, consensus mechanism, smart contract usage, and integration with other software-based algorithms are also investigated. Our results maintain that the Internet of Things (IoT) is the main field in which blockchain provides security. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Blockchains)

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24 pages, 895 KiB

Open AccessReview

Review of Blockchain Applications in Food Supply Chains

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William George

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Tareq Al-Ansari

Blockchains 2023, 1(1), 34-57; https://doi.org/10.3390/blockchains1010004 - 02 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2071

Abstract

Blockchain has found wide acceptance not just in the DeFi and Crypto space, but also in digital supply chains, non-monetary transactions, and governance. Amongst many, the food supply chain is riddled with lots of inefficiencies and untraceable corruption. Hence, many have investigated the [...] Read more.

Blockchain has found wide acceptance not just in the DeFi and Crypto space, but also in digital supply chains, non-monetary transactions, and governance. Amongst many, the food supply chain is riddled with lots of inefficiencies and untraceable corruption. Hence, many have investigated the integration of blockchain technology into the food system. This paper discusses the major advancement in blockchain technology from the aspect of food security and proposes roadmaps for future applications in businesses. We dive into the different pillars of food security and how blockchains can play a valuable role in the technology infrastructure of food security in a holistic sense. Next, the paper also discusses the organizational, economic, and management aspects of technology adoption. Finally, we end by discussing the nexus between Blockchain and Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAO), as well as Digital Twins, respectively. Full article

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15 pages, 1153 KiB

Open AccessReview

Recommendation Systems for the Metaverse

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Blockchains 2023, 1(1), 19-33; https://doi.org/10.3390/blockchains1010003 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1094

Abstract

The metaverse, a virtual world closely intertwined with reality, represents the next-generation form of the Internet and encompasses advanced sociability and interaction. With the rapid growth of users and virtual products within this environment, the importance of recommendation systems becomes paramount. This article [...] Read more.

The metaverse, a virtual world closely intertwined with reality, represents the next-generation form of the Internet and encompasses advanced sociability and interaction. With the rapid growth of users and virtual products within this environment, the importance of recommendation systems becomes paramount. This article presents a comprehensive survey that examines the technologies influencing the development of recommendation systems tailored for the metaverse. Firstly, we identify the key trends and fundamental concepts associated with these systems. Secondly, we delve into the core supporting technologies and application scenarios within metaverse recommendation systems. Lastly, we provide insights into future research directions for this rapidly evolving field. Our survey reveals that while progress has been achieved, further investigation is necessary to optimize the technical layout and content of metaverse recommendation systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Blockchains)

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16 pages, 1740 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Approaches for Detecting Vulnerabilities in Smart Contracts within Web 3.0 Applications

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Blockchains 2023, 1(1), 3-18; https://doi.org/10.3390/blockchains1010002 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1509

Abstract

Smart contracts, programs running on a blockchain, play a crucial role in driving Web 3.0 across a variety of domains, such as digital finance and future networks. However, they currently face significant security vulnerabilities that could result in potential risks and losses. This [...] Read more.

Smart contracts, programs running on a blockchain, play a crucial role in driving Web 3.0 across a variety of domains, such as digital finance and future networks. However, they currently face significant security vulnerabilities that could result in potential risks and losses. This paper outlines the inherent vulnerabilities of smart contracts, both those typical of their applications and those unique to Web 3.0 applications. We then systematically classify the techniques based on their core approach to detecting vulnerabilities in smart contracts. Using these approaches, we conduct a comparative analysis of existing tools in terms of their vulnerability coverage, detection effectiveness, open-source availability, and integration capabilities. Finally, we present the Co-Governed Sovereignty Multi-Identifier Network (CoG-MIN) as a case study to demonstrate the significance of smart contract application security in establishing a community with a shared future in cyberspace during the Web 3.0 era and anticipate future research directions with challenges. To conclude, this study addresses the gap in integrating existing smart contract security research with the advancement of Web 3.0 development, while also providing recommendations for future research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Blockchains)

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