Investment In New Technologies Research Articles

Auditor Skill Demands and Audit Quality: Evidence from Job Postings

This study empirically examines the relation between audit quality and auditors’ cognitive and social skills. Using a novel data set of online job postings by accounting firms, we document substantial variation in the stated demand for auditors’ cognitive and social skills, suggesting that audit offices are not homogeneous in their preferences for such skills. We find a positive relation between audit quality and the prevalence of cognitive and social skills within an audit office’s job postings. This association is stronger for audit engagements that are more complex or require greater coordination, suggesting that cognitive and social skills are particularly important in engagements where effective communication and knowledge transfer, as well as sound professional judgment and skepticism, are needed. The association is also stronger for audit offices with greater investments in new technology, consistent with the complementary relation between cognitive and social skills and the use of technology. Overall, our study offers empirical evidence linking specific auditor skills to audit quality. This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivasan, accounting. Funding: C. Ham acknowledges financial support from the Blanche “Peg” Philpott Faculty Fellowship. R. N. Hann acknowledges financial support from KPMG. W. Wang acknowledges the financial support from the Hong Kong Research Grant Council [Grant 11503720]. Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.01640 .

Dynamic investment in new technology and risk management

Dynamic investment in new technology and risk management

Measuring technological development and sovereignty

The article discusses the issue of measuring technological sovereignty, which is essential for developing a scientific and technical strategy to enhance Russia’s technological independence. Index methods do not provide an accurate representation of the level of technological sovereignty. Solving this problem requires assessing the efficiency of economic technologies. The aim of the study is to explain the direct (non-indexed) method of measuring technology sovereignty, taking into account qualitative features of technologies. The study employs the theory of technological change and empirical regression analysis and uses statistical data from the Russian economy as its information base. A general algorithm for measuring technological independence is proposed. It is applied to each technological area separately, considering the qualitative characteristics of the technologies used. An indicator for assessing the level of producibility is calculated based on the ratio of innovative to non-innovative products and services. The impact of investments in new and old technologies on this indicator is assessed, allowing to obtain a structural picture of Russia’s technological development and renewal. The general conclusion is that investments in new technologies have not been a determining factor in increasing the level of producibility for the Russian economy. The measurement of technological sovereignty requires changes to the federal statistical system for tracking technological development. This would not only allow for a more accurate quantification of the superiority of domestically produced technologies over imported ones but would also reflect the qualitative aspects of potential dependence on foreign technologies in a more comprehensive way. It is important to identify the balance between new and obsolete technologies, as well as between domestic and foreign-produced technologie

The Role of Customer Subsidies in Spurring Incumbents’ Investments in New Technologies

The Role of Customer Subsidies in Spurring Incumbents’ Investments in New Technologies

China: the state and the economy under Xi Jinping

How does the Chinese Communist Party navigate its way through the contradictions and tensions of managing a capitalist economy? This article traces the dynamics of recent developments within the Chinese economy and state, particularly the period of President Xi Jinping’s dominance. It explores the paradox of the juxtaposition of Communist Party rule with capitalist economic development. The resulting tensions are evident in the state’s successive changes of strategy, in its efforts to reconcile the antagonistic forces that have arisen during China’s extremely rapid industrialisation. An elite party is ruling without any functional or democratic means of negotiating between such antagonisms. China’s economy is currently shifting to a new phase, away from its emphasis on cheap labour from the rural areas and towards becoming a high‐tech economy. The current plan for growth rests upon a quest for greater self-reliance and vast investment in new technologies. Xi’s regime is attempting this while simultaneously seeking to strengthen its control over capital, labour and civil society. The article discusses recent shifts of policy resulting from Xi’s need to maintain the party’s authority following the financial crisis and the Covid pandemic: including the u-turn over Covid restrictions at the beginning of 2023, and the clampdown on companies such as Evergrande following the property crash.

Simulation of Optimization Decision Model for Low-carbon Economy Schemes Based on Machine Learning Algorithms

Low-carbon economy (LCE) is a shift from high-carbon intensive industries and activities to low-emission or zero-emission industries and activities, which requires a lot of investment in new technologies and infrastructure, as well as changes in policies and regulations to promote sustainability and reduce emissions. In this article, the back propagation neural network (BPNN) algorithm in machine learning (ML) is applied to the construction of low-carbon economic scheme optimization decision model, and the performance of the model is simulated and tested. The results show that BPNN algorithm has higher accuracy and reliability in predicting the development level of LCE, which is 23.8% higher than Support Vector Machine (SVM) algorithm. Through the comparative study of BPNN algorithm and SVM algorithm in forecasting the development level of LCE, the advantages of BPNN algorithm in forecasting accuracy and application value are verified. BPNN algorithm can better adapt to and deal with the complex data patterns in the field of LCE, improve the accuracy and reliability of prediction, and provide strong technical support and guarantee for the growth of LCE.

The Influence of Artificial Intelligence on Employment Trends in the United States (US)

This paper examines the Influence of Artificial Intelligence on Employment Trends in the United States (US). The rapid development of AI technology is creating significant disruptions in traditional labor markets, leading to concerns about unemployment and inequality. The paper highlights the importance of understanding the effects of AI on the labor market and the need for proactive steps to address any negative impact as well as the policy options available to address these challenges, including retraining and education programs, regulation of AI use, and tax policies. It also considers the potential costs and benefits of these options and the stakeholders who are impacted by them. This paper recommends investing in education and training programs for workers, creating tax incentives for affected communities, promoting research and development of AI technologies that complement human workers, and implementing policies to promote the responsible use of AI. The paper also discusses bureaucratic barriers to participation that may hinder effective implementation of these recommendations. Finally, it recommends a combination of retraining and education programs and tax policies to promote investment in new technologies and job creation.

Exploring the Pathways for Green Transformation and Development in Resource-Based Cities

This paper explores the pathways for green transformation and sustainable development in resource-based cities in China, which have historically relied heavily on natural resources for economic growth. With a focus on three Chinese cities - Ordos, Handan, and Hegang - each representing different stages of resource dependency and transformation progress, the study assesses their transition strategies from traditional resource exploitation to a more diversified, green economy. It evaluates the economic, environmental, and social challenges that these cities face in shifting away from resource-intensive industries. The paper also analyzes the impacts of existing policies and offers strategic recommendations to facilitate effective green transitions. By incorporating case studies, the research highlights the unique approaches each city has adopted, including investments in new technologies, shifts in industrial structures, and enhancements in social policies, to achieve sustainable development. The findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive planning, technological innovation, and community engagement in driving the successful transformation of resource-based cities towards eco-friendly and economically diverse futures.

Botnets in Healthcare: Threats, Vulnerabilities, and Mitigation Strategies

The increasing digitization of healthcare systems has introduced new opportunities to improve efficiency and accessibility for medical professionals and patients. Examples include the simplified collection, storage, and organization of patient data using electronic health records (EHRs), the use of teleconferencing software like Zoom to allow patients to meet with their care providers remotely, and medical IoT devices like glucose monitors, pacemakers, and other remote patient monitoring devices that leverage software and the internet to provide patients and their healthcare providers with critical information. All of these use cases are examples of how technology can increase the quality of patient care. While the healthcare industry has realized many benefits from its increased investment in new technology, trends have shown that this increased utilization has also opened avenues for malicious cyber actors. One of these threats is botnets. These malicious networks of compromised computers, controlled by cybercriminals, can wreak havoc on all sectors of society, with the healthcare industry proving to be a desirable target. This research is a high-level analysis that investigates the threat botnets pose by employing an exploratory review. We identify the multifaceted nature of botnet threats in healthcare, analyzing their standard forms and the vulnerabilities inherent in healthcare infrastructures, ranging from outdated software to inadequate cybersecurity protocols to poor or total lack of security awareness training for staff. Moreover, the various techniques botnets use to propagate are explored to elucidate the potential points of exploitation and the damage they can cause organizations when proper controls are not implemented. These negative consequences include data breaches, service disruptions, and compromised patient confidentiality, which can endanger medical staff and patients if not addressed. This paper then discusses proven mitigation strategies such as end-user awareness, traffic monitoring, and detection response tools that organizations can employ to reduce the potential and efficacy of such threats. The threat landscape will continue to evolve; however, by staying on top of the latest trends, we can ensure the security of such critical infrastructure and save lives.

A journey into the innovations and expertise of Dubai police and the general department of forensic science and criminology

This manuscript offers an in-depth exploration of the Dubai Police and its General Department of Forensic Science and Criminology, emphasizing their critical role in law enforcement through advanced forensic science and innovative practices. Beginning with a historical overview, it traces the evolution of forensic disciplines from Edmond Locard's foundational principles to Sir Alec Jeffreys' groundbreaking DNA profiling techniques. The manuscript details the structure and functions of specialized sections within the department, including Biology and DNA, Forensic Chemistry, Forensic Toxicology, Firearms and Tool Marks, Questioned Documents, Forensic Explosive, Forensic Fire Investigation, Forensic and Mechanical Engineering, and Nuclear Physics. Key achievements, such as the Biology and DNA Section's processing of thousands of cases and the generation of highly discriminating DNA profiles, are highlighted. The manuscript also addresses the department's challenges, including the rapid evolution of technology and the increasing complexity of crimes. Future plans to enhance capabilities through investment in new technologies, international collaboration, and continuous professional development are outlined. By showcasing the department's commitment to innovation, excellence, and public safety, this manuscript underscores the pivotal contributions of the Dubai Police and its forensic department to crime resolution and community safety. The insights provided aim to foster a deeper understanding of the critical role of forensic science in the criminal justice system.

Technological substitution: The key control modes

One of the primary goals of public administration in Russia is ensuring technological sovereignty which is hard to attain without proper planning and coherent technology modernization policy in different fields of economic activity. However, administration tools should allow for the current stage of technological development. The article aims to identify control modes of technology modernization considering the principles of substitution and addition. The foundation of research resides in technological change theory. The research methods applied are taxonomic and structural analysis, statistical generalization. Empirical evidence for 2004–2021 was retrieved from the Russian Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat). This methodological approach has allowed establishing the key control modes and types of technology modernization – substitution and addition – according to investment in high or low technology, and formulating their central principles. The study also discusses the variants of state policy aiming to extend the country’s technological sovereignty based on the current mode of technological modernization. It is shown that the pseudo effect of technological dualism discovered in the Russian economy suggests utilising special tools designed to optimize the economic structure for boosting investment in new technologies.

ORGANIZATIONAL AGILITY AND THE FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE GROWTH OF EMPLOYEES’ DIGITAL COMPETENCIES

The article examines the relationship between organizational agility and digital competencies of employees. The aim of the research was to identify factors that contribute to the growth of digital competencies in agile organizations, as well as to determine the impact of these factors on the agility of these organizations. A hypothesis was formulated that there is a strong relationship between organizational agility and factors increasing the digital competencies of employees. In the study conducted on 303 respondents, four main factors were examined: the willingness to adapt to changes, the company’s investment in new technologies, training and workshops, and the creation of an appropriate culture and environment in the organization. The results show that all these factors are strongly correlated with each other, indicating the need for an integrated approach to the development of digital competencies. In conclusion, the article emphasizes that appropriate investments in new technologies, the implementation of training and workshops, and the creation of a culture and environment that promote the adaptation of new technologies are necessary to increase the digital competencies of employees and enhance organizational agility. The research provides valuable information for organizational leaders striving to increase organizational agility through the development of digital competencies of employees.

Policy legacies and energy transitions: Greening policies under sectoral reforms in Argentina and Chile

Under what conditions do greening policies lead to a fast deployment of solar and wind energies? Environmental economics assume that market factors and technological innovations are the main drivers of energy transitions. While these assumptions sometimes hold for well-functioning markets; in emerging economies, the combination of scarce capital, weak institutions, and market distortions creates specific challenges that make their paths to clean energies different from those of developed states. I analyze greening reforms of the electricity sector in Argentina and Chile, exploring instances of success and failure. Using archive data and interviews to stakeholders, I explain how previous sector structures created different market distortions that hindered an effective electricity transition even in the context of significant cost-savings from investment in new technologies. Successful greening policies entailed broader electricity-sector reforms that removed previous binding constraints and restructured incentives for key private-sector stakeholders. I corroborate this argument by employing synthetic control methods to evaluate policies’ impact. I show that broad greening policies led to a significant penetration of renewable energies: by 2020 the share of solar and wind energies in Argentina and Chile were about 7.3% and 13.6% higher than in the counterfactual scenarios in which the greening reforms had not occurred.

Changes in the steel chain in Industry 4.0. Some results of survey on the Polish steel market

Abstract The paper discusses the changes occurring in the steel industry and related markets as they move towards Industry 4.0. With significant investments in new technologies, steel mills are creating a smart environment for cooperation between producers, distributors, and consumers of steel products. The influence of Industry 4.0 within mills is being transferred to other participants in the steel product chains, and vice versa. The research aimed to determine the impact of Industry 4.0 technologies on the steel product chains in the Polish steel market. The research was conducted in Poland. The obtained database comprised 208 respondents (company executives), including steel mills and steel product manufacturers. Technologies (the pillars of Industry 4.0) are grouped into five technological fields: automation and robotics; warehouse automation; Computer systems, systems integration, mobile technologies, Big Data and IIoT, Blockchain and cybersecurity. Analysis was realized in the three respondent segments representing the steel chain in Poland [RSs]: Producer [P], Distributor [D], and Consumer [C]. The results of the research can help companies improve their steel product chains. The study takes a value chain approach, considering steel production, distribution of steel products, and services for orders and consumers of steel and steel products.

Strategic flexibility in healthcare: an exploration of real options

PurposeThis survey explores the application of real options theory to the field of health economics. The integration of options theory offers a valuable framework to address these challenges, providing insights into healthcare investments, policy analysis and patient care pathways.Design/methodology/approachThis research employs the real options theory, a financial concept, to delve into health economics challenges. Through a systematic approach, three distinct models rooted in this theory are crafted and analyzed. Firstly, the study examines the value of investing in emerging health technology, factoring in future advantages, associated costs and unpredictability. The second model is patient-centric, evaluating the choice between immediate treatment switch and waiting for more clarity, while also weighing the associated risks. Lastly, the research assesses pandemic-related government policies, emphasizing the importance of delaying decisions in the face of uncertainties, thereby promoting data-driven policymaking.FindingsThree different real options models are presented in this study to illustrate their applicability and value in aiding decision-makers. (1) The first evaluates investments in new technology, analyzing future benefits, discount rates and benefit volatility to determine investment value. (2) In the second model, a patient has the option of switching treatments now or waiting for more information before optimally switching treatments. However, waiting has its risks, such as disease progression. By modeling the potential benefits and risks of both options, and factoring in the time value, this model aids doctors and patients in making informed decisions based on a quantified assessment of potential outcomes. (3) The third model concerns pandemic policy: governments can end or prolong lockdowns. While awaiting more data on the virus might lead to economic and societal strain, the model emphasizes the economic value of deferring decisions under uncertainty.Practical implicationsThis research provides a quantified perspective on various decisions in healthcare, from investments in new technology to treatment choices for patients to government decisions regarding pandemics. By applying real options theory, stakeholders can make more evidence-driven decisions.Social implicationsDecisions about patient care pathways and pandemic policies have direct societal implications. For instance, choices regarding the prolongation or ending of lockdowns can lead to economic and societal strain.Originality/valueThe originality of this study lies in its application of real options theory, a concept from finance, to the realm of health economics, offering novel insights and analytical tools for decision-makers in the healthcare sector.

Expanding Access to Computed Tomographic Staging and Three-Dimensional Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy for Cervical Cancer in Ghana.

To build capacity for improved treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer in Ghana, including computed tomography (CT) staging and intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). Patients with histologically confirmed cervical cancer were prospectively staged with abdominopelvic CT and ultrasound and offered the opportunity to have IMRT instead of conventional two-dimensional radiotherapy. The development of an efficient, high-quality, and safe IMRT program was facilitated by investment in new technology and comprehensive training of the interdisciplinary radiotherapy team in collaboration with a North American center of excellence. Of 215 patients with cervical cancer referred in 2022, 66% were able to afford CT scans and 26% were able to afford IMRT. Lymph node metastases were identified in 52% of patients by CT but in only 2% of patients by ultrasound. The use of CT resulted in 63% of patients being upstaged and changed treatment intent or radiation treatment volumes in 67% of patients. Patients who had IMRT experienced fewer acute side effects and were more likely to complete treatment as planned. It is feasible to provide state-of the-art cancer treatment with CT staging and IMRT to patients with cervical cancer in low-resource settings and achieve meaningful improvements in outcomes. It requires a broad commitment by program leadership to invest in technology and staff training. Major challenges include balancing improved clinical care with reduced patient throughput when radiation treatment capacity is constrained, and with the additional cost in the absence of universal health coverage.

Assessing radiologists' and radiographers' perceptions on artificial intelligence integration: opportunities and challenges.

The objective of this study was to evaluate radiologists' and radiographers' opinions and perspectives on artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into the radiology department. Additionally, we investigated the most common challenges and barriers that radiologists and radiographers face when learning about AI. A nationwide, online descriptive cross-sectional survey was distributed to radiologists and radiographers working in hospitals and medical centres from May 29, 2023 to July 30, 2023. The questionnaire examined the participants' opinions, feelings, and predictions regarding AI and its applications in the radiology department. Descriptive statistics were used to report the participants' demographics and responses. Five-points Likert-scale data were reported using divergent stacked bar graphs to highlight any central tendencies. Responses were collected from 258 participants, revealing a positive attitude towards implementing AI. Both radiologists and radiographers predicted breast imaging would be the subspecialty most impacted by the AI revolution. MRI, mammography, and CT were identified as the primary modalities with significant importance in the field of AI application. The major barrier encountered by radiologists and radiographers when learning about AI was the lack of mentorship, guidance, and support from experts. Participants demonstrated a positive attitude towards learning about AI and implementing it in the radiology practice. However, radiologists and radiographers encounter several barriers when learning about AI, such as the absence of experienced professionals support and direction. Radiologists and radiographers reported several barriers to AI learning, with the most significant being the lack of mentorship and guidance from experts, followed by the lack of funding and investment in new technologies.

System planning with demand assets in balancing markets

Balancing markets will become more and more relevant with the increased volatility in the electricity system due to the increase in the renewable quota. New policies are paving the way for customers flexibility participation as demand response in reserve products. This paper contributes with an assessment of the impact of demand response participation in the reserve market when planning the electricity system’s operation and investment in new technologies. The model used has been conveniently upgraded and a set of scenarios have been raised to conduct the analysis. The residential and services sectors' consumption for heating, cooling, hot water, and electric vehicles are considered as sources of flexibility. Each one has their own modeling to represent their nature. Main findings show that demand response receives and offers more benefits for the system on the wholesale market than in balancing services, although their participation in them is quite relevant. This is due to the decrease in firm capacity investment needs thanks to reducing systems’ peak technologies and the decrease of spillages from renewables. Additionally, increasing demand response percentages in the systems lead to cost reduction. However, there is a limitation associated with an increase of CO2 emissions due to the usage of existing polluting technologies to avoid investments in storages. Finally, flexibility providers are compared to determine their flexible capabilities.

Environment and Inclusive Growth: Concerns and Solutions

The ecology and all of its components are suffering greatly as a result of the unchecked speed of development. At this rate, environmental degradation will have an impact on humanity and associated fields. In order to prevent the consequences of expansion from pushing the environment into a situation from which it is incapable of recovering, there should be ongoing, earnest efforts made towards sustainable development. The three pillars of ecodevelopment are the environment, humanity, and economy. A stable growth rate is necessary to attain a just balance between these pillars. Since agriculture employs the majority of the population, it also has an impact on the balance of the ecosystem. Because every unplanned step towards progress puts us back in the environmental front, we must thus be mindful of the boundaries of environmental challenges in order to achieve equitable economic growth. The hope for sustainable development lies in decreased deforestation, greater food security, conservative agricultural practices, the use of biopesticides, and prudent use of natural resources. To be effective, environmental policy probably needs to employ a variety of tools, each addressing a distinct aspect of the issue and attempting to minimise redundancies and pointless regulations. Appropriately pricing environmental inputs facilitates sustainable resource provision and use management. Long-term corporate investment in new technology and innovation is encouraged by a consistent and clear environmental policy, which also increases investment certainty. Environmental and economic success are interdependent. Economic activity and advancement depend on the natural environment because it provides the resources needed to produce goods and services and because it processes and absorbs waste and pollution, which are unwanted byproducts. This paper focuses on how environmental assets assist control risks associated with social and economic activities, flood risks, local climate regulation (temperature and air quality), and the availability of clean water and other resources.

Comparative Study on the effects of Urban Heat Islands using Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System for the Salem district, India

The ecology and all of its components are suffering greatly as a result of the unchecked speed of development. At this rate, environmental degradation will have an impact on humanity and associated fields. In order to prevent the consequences of expansion from pushing the environment into a situation from which it is incapable of recovering, there should be ongoing, earnest efforts made towards sustainable development. The three pillars of ecodevelopment are the environment, humanity, and economy. A stable growth rate is necessary to attain a just balance between these pillars. Since agriculture employs the majority of the population, it also has an impact on the balance of the ecosystem. Because every unplanned step towards progress puts us back in the environmental front, we must thus be mindful of the boundaries of environmental challenges in order to achieve equitable economic growth. The hope for sustainable development lies in decreased deforestation, greater food security, conservative agricultural practices, the use of biopesticides, and prudent use of natural resources. To be effective, environmental policy probably needs to employ a variety of tools, each addressing a distinct aspect of the issue and attempting to minimise redundancies and pointless regulations. Appropriately pricing environmental inputs facilitates sustainable resource provision and use management. Long-term corporate investment in new technology and innovation is encouraged by a consistent and clear environmental policy, which also increases investment certainty. Environmental and economic success are interdependent. Economic activity and advancement depend on the natural environment because it provides the resources needed to produce goods and services and because it processes and absorbs waste and pollution, which are unwanted byproducts. This paper focuses on how environmental assets assist control risks associated with social and economic activities, flood risks, local climate regulation (temperature and air quality), and the availability of clean water and other resources.