Innovative Technological Advances Research Articles

Can government digital transformation improve corporate energy efficiency in resource-based cities?

Corporations in resource-based cities have long faced unique challenges in achieving sustainable development. Digital government construction, a critical strategy for enhancing governance capacity through information technology, presents significant potential to improve corporate energy efficiency and foster sustainable growth. This study explores the impact of digital government construction on corporate energy efficiency in China's resource-based cities, utilizing data from listed companies. The findings are as follows: First, digital government construction significantly enhances corporate energy efficiency in resource-based cities, with this effect remaining robust across a series of robustness checks. Second, the extent of this beneficial effect varies with factors such as digital infrastructure level, environmental policy stringency, local financial constraints, and corporate ownership structure. Third, the improvement in energy efficiency is primarily driven by advances in technological innovation and reductions in non-productive expenditures. These findings underscore the pivotal role of digital government construction as an effective tool for enhancing energy efficiency and supporting sustainable development in resource-based cities.

A visual electrochemiluminescence sensor based on the combination of distance-readout strategy and nanozymes catalyzing precipitation

BackgroundNanozyme is a kind of biomimetic enzyme with unique properties and catalytic function of nanomaterials. Various nanozymes have been applied in the development of visual biosensors because of its excellent stability and availability. Nevertheless, the current applications of nanozymes primarily focus on colorimetric sensing based on color changes, which is susceptible to external factors interference including sample solution color and ambient light. Incorporating a distance-readout strategy with nanozymes presents a promising avenue for the advancement of innovative visual biosensing technologies in the future. ResultsA visual electrochemiluminescence (ECL) sensor was developed by combining the distance-readout strategy with nanozymes catalyzing precipitation for the first time. The detection is based on the ECL length change induced by nanozymes. This sensor chip comprises a square detection area and a visual ECL channel area. A peroxidase-mimic, core-shell hollow Fe3O4@PDA@ZIF-67, was modified in the detection region. The substrate 4-chloro-1-naphthol was rapidly catalyzed by nanozymes to form purple precipitate benzo-4-chlorohexanedione, leading to an increase in impedance within the detection region. Consequently, the detection area's partial voltage rose while the visual channel's dropped, resulting in a shorter ECL length. As a proof-of-concept experiment, the visual distance-readout ECL sensor was utilized for the quantitative detection of H2O2. The alteration in ECL length exhibited a good linear relationship with H2O2 concentration (logarithm) within the range of 300 nM to 300 μM, with the limit of detection (LOD) of 87 nM. SignificanceThis work developed a novel approach for the application of nanozymes in analytical chemistry. Compared with common colorimetric sensing, this method is more convenient and intuitive, which can effectively eliminate potential interference from humans and the environment during signal acquisition. Because biocatalytic precipitation can be formed through multiple sensing processes, this strategy holds great promise as a portable and cost-effective tool with diverse applications.

CONCEPT AND CHARACTERISTICS OF CUSTOMS AUTHORITIES’ COMPETENCE IN THE CONTEXT OF INNOVATIVE PROCESSES IN UKRAINIAN CUSTOMS AFFAIRS

This article analyzes the concept and characteristics of customs authorities’ competencies in Ukraine within the context of ongoing innovations in customs practices. As Ukraine pursues its Euro-integration goals — aimed at modernizing economic infrastructure, overcoming technological lag, attracting foreign investments, and enhancing international competitiveness — customs authorities play a pivotal role in ensuring the effective functioning of foreign economic activities. The focus of the article is on the necessity to modernize the competencies of customs authorities in line with global standards and to implement advanced innovative technologies, as outlined in Ukraine’s Innovation Development Strategy up to 2030. It examines the impact and significance of innovations such as the ‘Single Window’ system, ‘Smart Customs’ initiatives, pre-arrival cargo information technologies radio-frequency identification (RFID), and blockchain for enhancing customs control, management, and interactions with external partners. A central issue discussed in the article is the development of new competencies required for the effective implementation of these innovations by customs authorities. Specifically, it addresses the need to cultivate digital, intellectual, partnership, and security skills. The article also explores the effects of economic and political instability, particularly the wartime conditions in Ukraine, on the implementation of innovations in customs operations. Key challenges are identified, such as difficulties in exporting high-tech goods, granting incentives for importing innovative equipment, and applying non-tariff regulatory measures, including certification, quotas, and licensing. Recommendations are provided for improving the organizational structures of customs authorities and updating the legal and regulatory framework to adapt to modern requirements and standards. The article advocates for the development of a new, intelligent customs system that can swiftly and effectively respond to changes by employing cutting-edge digital technologies and security methods. Emphasis is placed on the importance of enhancing the qualifications of customs professionals, which is essential for the successful implementation of innovations in customs control.

Customs competencies in ukraine: embracing innovation for enhanced efficiency

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the concept and features of the competencies of Ukrainian customs authorities considering ongoing innovations in the customs sector. As Ukraine follows its Euro-integration path, aimed at modernizing its economic infrastructure, addressing technological gaps, attracting foreign investments, and enhancing its international competitiveness, the role of customs authorities becomes vital in facilitating effective foreign economic activities. The article underscores the critical need to update the competencies of customs authorities to meet global standards and incorporate advanced innovative technologies, as envisioned in Ukraine’s Innovation Development Strategy up to 2030. It explores the impact and relevance of innovations such as the ‘Smart Customs’ initiatives, ‘Single Window’ system, pre-arrival cargo information systems, radio-frequency identification, and blockchain technology in improving customs control, management, and interactions with external partners. A major focus of the article is on the new competencies required by customs authorities to successfully implement these innovations. It highlights the importance of developing digital, intellectual, partnership, and security skills. Furthermore, the article examines the effects of economic and political instability, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, on the innovation processes within customs operations. It identifies significant challenges such as the difficulties in exporting high-tech goods, offering incentives for the import of innovative equipment, and the application of non-tariff regulatory measures, including certification, quotas, and licensing. The article provides detailed recommendations for enhancing the organizational structures of customs authorities and calls for updating the legal and regulatory framework to align with current demands and standards. It advocates for the creation of a modern, intelligent customs system that can rapidly and effectively adapt to changes using state-of-the-art digital technologies and security methods. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of enhancing the qualifications of customs professionals, which is deemed essential for the successful integration of innovations in customs control.

Enhancing Olive Cultivation Resilience: Sustainable Long-Term and Short-Term Adaptation Strategies to Alleviate Climate Change Impacts

Olive cultivation, an icon of Mediterranean agriculture, economy, and cultural heritage, faces significant challenges due to climate change and soil degradation. Climate projections indicate that altered precipitation patterns, rising temperatures, and increased frequency of extreme weather events will adversely affect olive tree growth, fruit quality, and yield. This review provides a novel perspective on addressing these challenges through both long-term and short-term adaptation strategies, emphasizing innovative products, advanced technologies, and practical solutions that must work synergistically and be tailored to regional conditions. Long-term practices refer to proactive strategies for enduring climate resilience, including cover cropping, mulching, soil amendments, and breeding programs which enhance soil health, improve water retention, and increase the trees’ resilience. Short-term strategies focus on immediate impacts, offering immediate stress relief and enhanced plant physiological responses, including optimized irrigation systems, pruning management, particle coating films, biostimulants, and plant growth regulators. The review underscores the importance of aligning agricultural practices with sustainability goals and evolving environmental policies and the education of farmers and policymakers. By integrating adaptive practices and technological advancements, the olive sector can better address climate challenges, contribute to global food security, and advance environmental sustainability.

Optimizing Sustainable Urban Mobility: Integration Of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Into Smart Buildings

The integration of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure into smart buildings is a crucial step toward enhancing sustainable urban mobility. This paper explores the benefits, challenges, strategies, and best practices associated with this integration, with a focus on optimizing EV charging accessibility and promoting a cleaner transportation ecosystem. Traditional vehicles powered by fossil fuels contribute significantly to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. EVs offer reduced emissions, lower operating costs, and potential energy independence through renewable sources, making them a promising solution for urban mobility challenges. Despite these advantages, the widespread adoption of EVs faces hurdles, particularly regarding charging infrastructure availability and accessibility in urban areas. Range anxiety among EV users due to insufficient charging stations is a significant concern hindering the transition to electric transportation. The paper emphasizes strategic placement of charging stations, integration with renewable energy sources like solar panels, and utilization of smart grid technologies to optimize EV charging operations. Case studies such as Tesla Gigafactory Shanghai and Googleplex showcase successful implementations, demonstrating scalability, user-centric design, and seamless integration with building management systems. Key challenges such as funding constraints, technical interoperability, and grid integration are addressed, proposing solutions like innovative financing models, standardization efforts, and advanced grid management technologies. By addressing these challenges and implementing sustainable solutions, the integration of EV charging infrastructure into smart buildings can significantly contribute to reducing environmental impact, promoting cleaner transportation options, and fostering a more sustainable and resilient urban environment

The Impact of Digital Transformation on Company Valuation: A Case of Microsoft

The digital economy is now the driving force behind global economic expansion. In 2014, Microsoft underwent a digital transformation, and its valuation soared. This essay aims to investigate how the digital revolution affects business valuation. This paper applies research in asset valuation, investment and financing strategies, and risk management to qualitatively analyze Microsoft through the SWOT analysis method. Advanced technology and corporate innovation can raise valuation expectations, while technological risks and business homogenization can impact market competition and lower company valuation. Microsoft's advancement in digitalization can not only improve the company's competitiveness, but also enhance its value and promote high-quality development. As a result, firms need to effectively manage technology risks and data security issues, control costs, or improve service quality to remain competitive in the marketplace and increase the firm's valuation, thereby maintaining its market position and overall value. In this and other contexts, factors affecting valuation are subsequently discussed.

Exploring the Effects of Low-Carbon Labels on Purchase Intentions for Green Agricultural Products

Expedited economic expansion and innovative technological advancement have precipitated considerable environmental predicaments, giving rise to extensive ecological conundrums worldwide. In response to the pressing situation, numerous countries have implemented policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions. One such initiative is the “low-carbon label”, which signifies a commitment to lowering carbon emissions. On one hand, it offers consumers an effective means to identify low-carbon products, thereby enhancing their willingness towards green consumption. On the other hand, it motivates businesses to transition towards greener practices, thereby guiding the market towards more environmentally friendly directions. This transition has had a significantly positive impact on reducing carbon emissions and promoting the development of a low-carbon economy, highlighting its critical value within the broader environmental movement. This study focuses on exploring whether the low-carbon label can influence consumers’ willingness to purchase green agricultural products. The theoretical framework was developed based on the theory of perceived value and SOR theory. The data were gathered through a randomized survey conducted in China. The research findings suggest that the perceived environmental value, functional value, and emotional value have significant impacts on consumers’ willingness to purchase green agricultural products. Trust in low-carbon labels plays a critical role in mediating the relationship between perceived value and consumers’ purchasing intentions for green agricultural products. Our research yielded the following conclusions. (1) Consumers are progressively cultivating an independent pro-environmental persona and increasingly aligning themselves with sustainable development, as indicated by their affinity towards carbon labels. (2) The selection of low-carbon agricultural products by consumers is contingent upon sensory perception, emphasizing environmental spillover value, functional enhancement, and emotional support. (3) Consumer confidence in green low-carbon agricultural products stems from an intuitive perception perspective, suggesting that low-carbon labels should accentuate functional and emotional values. The study suggests proactive measures to enhance the role of low-carbon labels in the consumption of green agricultural products. These measures include three parts: (1) Improving the content system of low-carbon labels and integrating digital technologies to reconstruct trust systems; (2) strengthening promotional efforts focusing on enhancing consumers’ intrinsic value perceptions; and (3) establishing a national-level low-carbon labels certification system, raising standards, and strengthening supervision.

Microbiology of human spaceflight: microbial responses to mechanical forces that impact health and habitat sustainability.

SUMMARYUnderstanding the dynamic adaptive plasticity of microorganisms has been advanced by studying their responses to extreme environments. Spaceflight research platforms provide a unique opportunity to study microbial characteristics in new extreme adaptational modes, including sustained exposure to reduced forces of gravity and associated low fluid shear force conditions. Under these conditions, unexpected microbial responses occur, including alterations in virulence, antibiotic and stress resistance, biofilm formation, metabolism, motility, and gene expression, which are not observed using conventional experimental approaches. Here, we review biological and physical mechanisms that regulate microbial responses to spaceflight and spaceflight analog environments from both the microbe and host-microbe perspective that are relevant to human health and habitat sustainability. We highlight instrumentation and technology used in spaceflight microbiology experiments, their limitations, and advances necessary to enable next-generation research. As spaceflight experiments are relatively rare, we discuss ground-based analogs that mimic aspects of microbial responses to reduced gravity in spaceflight, including those that reduce mechanical forces of fluid flow over cell surfaces which also simulate conditions encountered by microorganisms during their terrestrial lifecycles. As spaceflight mission durations increase with traditional astronauts and commercial space programs send civilian crews with underlying health conditions, microorganisms will continue to play increasingly critical roles in health and habitat sustainability, thus defining a new dimension of occupational health. The ability of microorganisms to adapt, survive, and evolve in the spaceflight environment is important for future human space endeavors and provides opportunities for innovative biological and technological advances to benefit life on Earth.

Debate and Dilemmas Regarding Generative AI in Mental Health Care: Scoping Review.

Mental disorders have ranked among the top 10 prevalent causes of burden on a global scale. Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) has emerged as a promising and innovative technological advancement that has significant potential in the field of mental health care. Nevertheless, there is a scarcity of research dedicated to examining and understanding the application landscape of GAI within this domain. This review aims to inform the current state of GAI knowledge and identify its key uses in the mental health domain by consolidating relevant literature. Records were searched within 8 reputable sources including Web of Science, PubMed, IEEE Xplore, medRxiv, bioRxiv, Google Scholar, CNKI and Wanfang databases between 2013 and 2023. Our focus was on original, empirical research with either English or Chinese publications that use GAI technologies to benefit mental health. For an exhaustive search, we also checked the studies cited by relevant literature. Two reviewers were responsible for the data selection process, and all the extracted data were synthesized and summarized for brief and in-depth analyses depending on the GAI approaches used (traditional retrieval and rule-based techniques vs advanced GAI techniques). In this review of 144 articles, 44 (30.6%) met the inclusion criteria for detailed analysis. Six key uses of advanced GAI emerged: mental disorder detection, counseling support, therapeutic application, clinical training, clinical decision-making support, and goal-driven optimization. Advanced GAI systems have been mainly focused on therapeutic applications (n=19, 43%) and counseling support (n=13, 30%), with clinical training being the least common. Most studies (n=28, 64%) focused broadly on mental health, while specific conditions such as anxiety (n=1, 2%), bipolar disorder (n=2, 5%), eating disorders (n=1, 2%), posttraumatic stress disorder (n=2, 5%), and schizophrenia (n=1, 2%) received limited attention. Despite prevalent use, the efficacy of ChatGPT in the detection of mental disorders remains insufficient. In addition, 100 articles on traditional GAI approaches were found, indicating diverse areas where advanced GAI could enhance mental health care. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the use of GAI in mental health care, which serves as a valuable guide for future research, practical applications, and policy development in this domain. While GAI demonstrates promise in augmenting mental health care services, its inherent limitations emphasize its role as a supplementary tool rather than a replacement for trained mental health providers. A conscientious and ethical integration of GAI techniques is necessary, ensuring a balanced approach that maximizes benefits while mitigating potential challenges in mental health care practices.

Innovative technological advancements in solving real quadratic equations: Pioneering the frontier of mathematical innovation

Innovative technological advancements in solving real quadratic equations: Pioneering the frontier of mathematical innovation

The fourth industrial revolution and the agri-food labour market: a systematic literature review

Purpose The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technological development has undeniably brought major challenges to the agricultural labour market, hampering the adoption of smart technologies in the sector. This study aims to explore a series of literature on the 4IR aspects surrounding agri-food research. In particular, this study will evaluate the challenges faced by the agri-food labour market in response to the emergence of 4IR and propose solutions to strengthen the agri-food sector in response to 4IR. Design/methodology/approach The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses methodology was used to systematically screen, review and synthesize the literature on 4IR surrounding agri-food research. Findings While applying 4IR technologies spells opportunities for productivity growth and food security, the results revealed that these advanced technological innovations also create challenges to the agri-food sector labour market. Some identified challenges are financial constraints, lack of “Industry 4.0” knowledge and skills, lack of awareness and interest and inadequate government support. Correspondingly, to smoothen the transition to 4IR workplaces, the proposed solutions include offering relevant education and training, gaining access to government support and engaging in collaborative public-private partnerships. Originality/value Given the limited understanding of how technological applications can affect the agri-food sector, this study offers a more nuanced understanding of the gaps related to 4IR within the agri-food sector. By assessing the labour market challenges and addressing solutions for the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture, this study presents valuable insights into how relevant stakeholders in the agri-food sector should embrace Agriculture 4.0.

Modern Applications of Blockchain Technologies in Contemporary Times: A Systematic Review

Blockchain technology is one of the most innovative and versatile technological advancements of contemporary times, finding applications in various fields such as finance, healthcare, education, and real estate. This paper provides a systematic review of blockchain technology, its historical evolution, fundamental concepts, different types of blockchain, and its various applications. The study also explores the key characteristics of blockchain, including decentralization, transparency, and immutability, and discusses the challenges and limitations faced by the technology, such as scalability issues, security concerns, and regulatory challenges. Additionally, the paper looks into future trends and developments in blockchain technology, particularly advancements in consensus algorithms, integration with other emerging technologies, and the rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and Decentralized Finance (DeFi).

The changes in zoological publication rates and focal subdisciplines between 1960 and 2022.

Since ancient times, zoology, as the branch of biology dealing with animals, has been a cornerstone of natural science and has developed substantially over the last century. We conducted a bibliometric analysis using structural topic modeling (STM) to determine changes in the representation of principal zoological subdisciplines in the literature between 1960 and 2022. We collated a corpus of 217414 articles from 88 top-ranked zoology journals and identified three main fields: (i) ecology, (ii) evolution, and (iii) applied research. Within these, we identified 10 major subdisciplines. The number of studies published per year grew from 118 in 1960 to 6635 in 2022. Macroscale-related subdisciplines increased while classical and traditional subdisciplines decreased. Mammals (34.4%) and insects (18.1%) were the dominant taxa covered, followed by birds (15.2%) and fish (8.0%). Research on mammals, insects, and fish involved a broad range of subdisciplines, whereas studies of birds focused on ecological subdisciplines. Most publications were from the United States, followed by the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Australia, China, and Japan, with two developing countries, China and South Africa among the top 15 countries. There were different subdiscipline biases between countries, and the gross domestic product of each country correlated positively with its publication output (R2 = 0.681). We discuss our findings in the context of advances in technological innovations and computing power, as well as the emergence of ecology as a formal sister discipline, driven by changing environmental pressures and societal values. We caution that valuable publications from traditional zoological fields must not be completely supplanted by more contemporary topics and increasingly sophisticated analyses.

Assessment of India's Green Hydrogen Mission and environmental impact

To achieve the goal of Green Hydrogen Mission, India needs to work on three fronts concurrently. These are Feedstock Systems, Circular Economy integration, and the Environmental Impact of Hydrogen Emissions. This study addresses a critical research gap by offering a holistic assessment of India's preparedness in these interconnected areas. Prior research has often focused on individual aspects of this challenge. This work examines all three factors simultaneously to gain a clearer picture of India's ability to achieve its ambitious emission reduction goals. It analyzes India's rich feedstock resources, exploring initiatives like methane cracking and green hydrogen blending as emission reduction and sustainable energy solutions. Examining various sectors, including manufacturing and waste management, reveals barriers to circular economy integration, such as economic constraints and lack of awareness, alongside proposed solutions. Furthermore, the environmental impact of hydrogen emissions is scrutinized, stressing the importance of understanding and mitigating hydrogen emissions for a low-carbon economy. The study concludes by advocating for collaborative efforts among policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers. This collaboration is crucial to drive India's Green Hydrogen Mission forward through innovative solutions, policy interventions, and technological advancements. By addressing these interconnected areas, India can achieve its Green Hydrogen Mission goals and contribute significantly to sustainable development and climate change mitigation.

Degradation of emerging contaminants in synthetic hydrolyzed urine by UV/peracetic acid: Free radical chemistry, and toxicity analysis

The ecological impact of emerging contaminants (ECs) in aquatic environments has raised concerns, particularly with regards to urine as a significant source of such contaminants in wastewater. The current investigation used the UV/Peracetic Acid (UV/PAA) processes, an innovative advanced oxidation technology, to effectively separate two emerging pollutants from urine at its source, namely, ciprofloxacin (CIP) and bisphenol A(BPA). The research findings demonstrate that the presence of the majority of characteristic ions has minimal impact on the degradation of ECs. However, in synthetic hydrolyzed urine, only NH4+ inhibits the degradation of two types of ECs, with a more pronounced effect observed on CIP degradation compared to BPA.The impact of halogen ions, specifically Cl− and I−, on the degradation of CIP in synthetic hydrolyzed urine was a complex phenomenon. When these two halogen ions are present individually, the generation of reactive halogen species (RHS) within the system enhances the degradation of CIP. However, when both types of ions coexist, the formation of diatomic radical species partially inhibits degradation. In terms of BPA degradation, while the production of reactive chlorine species (RCS) to some extent hinders the reaction rate, the generation of reactive iodine species (RIS) promotes the overall process. CIP undergoes fragmentation of the piperazine and quinoline rings, decarboxylation, defluorination reactions, as well as substitution reactions, leading to the formation of products with simplified structures. The degradation of BPA occurs gradually through hydroxyl and halogen substitution as well as isopropyl cleavage. The preliminary toxicity analysis confirmed that the presence of halogen ions in urine resulted in the formation of halogenated products in two types of ECs, albeit with an overall reduction in toxicity. The UV/PAA processes was considered to be an effective and relatively safe approach for the separation of ECs in urine.

Intra-Abdominal Hypertension and Abdominal Compartment Syndrome. Literature Review

Intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome remain a challenging problem in abdominal surgery. Due to various etiological factors leading to increased intra-abdominal pressure (inflammatory, destructive processes, trauma, sepsis, postoperative complications, etc.), and the negative impact of increased IBP on the functions of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular systems, kidneys, central nervous system, timely diagnosis and treatment play an important role. Gradually elevated intra-abdominal pressure can cause persistent organ dysfunction and be potentially fatal. To date, the pathophysiological mechanisms, methods for determining intra-abdominal pressure, the frequency of its measurement, and methods of conservative and surgical treatment have been studied in sufficient detail. The paper presents a literature review on the problem of intra-abdominal hypertension and abdominal compartment syndrome. The study considers issues of epidemiology, mortality rates, methods for measuring intra-abdominal pressure, including advanced innovative technologies. The authors present the basics of clinical diagnosis, the significance and informativity of additional biochemical blood tests, radiation methods, mainly computed tomography, and ultrasound examination. Advanced methods of conservative treatment are considered, which, when used early, significantly minimize target organ damage, organ dysfunction, and indications for emergency decompressive laparotomy. Finally, recommendations are given for the postoperative management of patients with an “open” abdomen, and for the optimal timing of laparostoma closure.

Adoption of electric vehicles in corporate enterprises: enhancing sustainability, economic efficiency, and operational management

The global automotive industry is currently undergoing a transformation driven by a number of factors, including environmental concerns, sustainability targets, and the advent of innovative technologies. The adoption of electric vehicles represents a pivotal aspect of this transformation, offering individual and corporate users in the car rental sector a significant alternative to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The economic and operational advantages of electric vehicles, coupled with the opportunity for car rental companies to fulfil their environmental responsibilities, are accelerating the transformation of the automotive industry. This study presents a case study on the utilization of electric vehicles for long-term car leasing companies for the purpose of providing corporate internal services. The aim is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the issue from multiple perspectives. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the concept of electric vehicle leasing, encompassing a range of considerations pertinent to decision-making. These include environmental sustainability, economic advantages, user experience, and operational efficiency.

INTELLECTUAL MIGRATION AS A FACTOR OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF THE COUNTRY: ANALYSIS OF CANADA’S EXPERIENCE

In the context of globalization, the topic of intellectual migration is becoming increasingly relevant for the development of innovative economies and advanced technologies. This article analyzes the experience of Canada, one of the leading countries in the field of attracting highly qualified specialists. The purpose of the article is to study Canada's immigration policy, and its impact on the socio-economic development of the country, as well as to identify current trends and opportunities for developing effective mechanisms for regulating migration flows. The case study method used in the study allowed for an in-depth analysis of Canadian practice. Data collection and processing included content analysis of regulatory legal acts, international and national reports, as well as other documented sources. The results of the study show that Canadian immigration policy is one of the most liberal and inclusive in the world, contributing to attracting highly qualified migrants, supporting family reunification, and providing asylum to those in need. Immigration processes play a key role in the socio-economic development of Canada, compensating for the shortage of workers and contributing to demographic stability. The Government of Canada is actively implementing migrant integration programs, which makes it possible to maximize the potential for economic growth and innovative development of the country. The study also revealed that effective immigration policies and integration programs are key factors for the successful recruitment and adaptation of highly qualified professionals in Canada. The results obtained can serve as a basis for the development of effective policies in the field of intellectual migration and contribute to further study of this topic.

Local Government Cybersecurity Landscape: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Framework

Local governments face critical challenges in the era of digital transformation, balancing the responsibility of safeguarding resident information and administrative documents while maintaining data integrity and public trust. These responsibilities become even more critical as they transition into smart cities adopting advanced technological innovations to revolutionize governance, enhance service delivery, and foster sustainable and resilient urban environments. Technological advancements like Internet-of-Things devices and artificial intelligence-driven approaches can provide better services to residents, but they also expose local governments to cyberthreats. There has been, nonetheless, very little study on cybersecurity issues from the local government perspective, and information on the multifaceted nature of cybersecurity in local government settings is scattered and fragmented, highlighting the need for a conceptual understanding and adequate action. Against this backdrop, this study aims to identify key components of cybersecurity in a local governmental context through a systematic literature review. This review further extends to the development of a conceptual framework providing a comprehensive understanding of the local government’s cybersecurity landscape. This study makes a significant contribution to the academic and professional domains of cybersecurity issues and policies within the local governmental context, offering valuable insights to local decision-makers, practitioners, and academics. This study also helps identify vulnerabilities, enabling stakeholders to recognize shortcomings in their cybersecurity and implement effective countermeasures to safeguard confidential information and documents. Thus, the findings inform local government policy to become more cybersecurity-aware and prepared.