Successful Technology Research Articles

Enhancing Older Adults’ Lives Through Positive Aging Perception, Quality-of-Life Enhancement, and Social Support to Drive Acceptance and Readiness Toward Indoor Assistive Technology: Cross-Sectional Study

Background The growing aging population faces increasing mobility limitations, highlighting the need for assistive technologies as potential solutions. These technologies support the independence and well-being of older adults and individuals with mobility challenges. Indoor mobility is essential for daily activities and significantly impacts their lives. Limited indoor mobility can reduce quality of life and heighten the risk of falls. Objective This study explores how positive aging perceptions, quality-of-life enhancements, and social support influence the acceptance and readiness of indoor assistive technologies among older adults. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at a gerontechnology laboratory, requiring participants to visit the facility in person. Each 60-minute session included demonstrations of various indoor assistive technologies and the completion of a questionnaire. The assistive technologies showcased encompassed a wide range of devices. Participants’ positive aging perceptions, quality-of-life enhancements, social support, technology acceptance, and readiness were measured using validated scales. Data were analyzed with AMOS (version 28; IBM Corp) and SPSS (version 28; IBM Corp), using structural equation modeling and multivariate analysis of covariance to assess the effects of predictors while controlling for demographic factors. Results A total of 104 older adults aged 60 years and older participated, with a mean age of 67.92 (SD 5.68) years. Structural equation modeling indicated that positive aging perception has a significant influence on older adults’ control beliefs (P=.095), comfort (P=.047), and confidence (P<.001) in gerontechnology. Multivariate analysis revealed significant combined effects of quality-of-life enhancement (P=.01) and social support (P=.03) on technology acceptance and readiness, wherein quality-of-life enhancement (P=.001) and social support (P=.008) negatively impacted security perception. Among demographic variables, educational level significantly impacted gerontechnology confidence (P=.004) while ethnicity influenced optimism (P=.003). Conclusions This study sheds light on key factors affecting older adults’ acceptance and readiness to adopt indoor assistive technologies. Findings highlight the importance of fostering positive aging perceptions through these technologies. Addressing issues related to control beliefs, comfort, and confidence in gerontechnology is essential to enhance technology acceptance and readiness among older adults. Future research should investigate the underlying mechanisms and create targeted interventions to support successful technology adoption in this population.

Bridging the Digital Divide: Overcoming Challenges in Technology Adoption in Malaysia’s Construction Industry

The integration of advanced digital technologies within Malaysia's construction industry represents a transformative step toward enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and global competitiveness in line with the Industry 4.0 revolution. Despite advancements in digital tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence, the sector faces challenges such as poor communication, high costs, and resistance to change. This study examines the key factors driving digital technology adoption, the challenges hindering its implementation, and the strategies to accelerate digital transformation within the industry. Using a structured survey method, data was gathered from 141 respondents, including consultants, subcontractors, and project owners actively engaged in Malaysia's construction sector. Enhanced budgeting, cost management, and improved risk management emerge as critical drivers, while lack of process standardisation and digital expertise are noted as secondary concerns. Data-driven decision-making, infrastructure investment, and structured change management are identified as pivotal strategies for successful technology integration. Findings suggest that widespread adoption requires collaboration among stakeholders, comprehensive training programs, and phased implementation plans to address barriers and foster acceptance. This research contributes to Malaysia’s Construction 4.0 framework, emphasising the need for targeted interventions to modernise practices, improve productivity, and achieve national development goals.

Upgrading Infrastructure and Communication Technologies for Organizational Success - A Comprehensive Review

Upgrading Infrastructure and Communication Technologies for Organizational Success - A Comprehensive Review

Perceptions of Patients With Stroke Regarding an Immersive Virtual Reality-Based Exercise System for Upper Limb Rehabilitation: Questionnaire and Interview Study.

With substantial resources allocated to develop virtual reality (VR)-based rehabilitation exercise programs for poststroke motor rehabilitation, it is important to understand how patients with stroke perceive these technology-driven approaches, as their perceptions can determine acceptance and adherence. This study aimed to examine the perceptions of patients with stroke regarding an immersive VR-based exercise system developed to deliver shoulder, elbow, forearm, wrist, and reaching exercises. A questionnaire was used to assess the perceptions of 21 inpatients who had experienced stroke (mean time from stroke onset: 37.2, SD 25.9 days; Brunnstrom stage of stroke recovery for the arm: 3-5) regarding the perceived usefulness of, ease of use of, attitude toward, intrinsic motivation for, and intention to use the exercise system. The measurement items were rated on a 7-point Likert scale ranging from 1 (very strongly disagree) to 7 (very strongly agree), with higher values indicating more positive perceptions. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the responses. Moreover, we conducted semistructured interviews that were audio recorded, transcribed, and subjected to content analysis to identify thematic patterns. The questionnaire results revealed that the patients' perceptions of the exercise system were positive (mean ratings >6). The content analysis revealed 6 positive themes from 73 statements about the exercise system: ease of use, usefulness, enjoyment, motivation, accessibility, and game design. Conversely, 15 statements reflected negative perceptions, which were clustered into 3 themes: difficulty in handling VR devices, uncomfortable experiences when using VR devices, and monotony. Integrating VR technology into poststroke functional exercises holds significant promise based on patient interests. However, patient preferences and adaptability must be considered to promote the technology's success. VR-guided exercises should be user-friendly, health-promoting, engaging, and well-designed. Furthermore, addressing challenges, such as bulkiness, motion sickness, discomfort, and exercise monotony, is crucial for the widespread adoption and diffusion of this technology.

Formulation development of dual-compartment topical inserts combining Tenofovir Alafenamide and Elvitegravir for flexible on-demand HIV prevention

Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has emerged as a prominent approach for the prevention of HIV infections. While the latest advances have resulted in effective oral and injectable product options, there are still gaps in on-demand, event-driven, topical products for HIV prevention that are safe and effective. Here we describe the formulation development of a dual-compartment topical insert containing tenofovir alafenamide fumarate (TAF) and elvitegravir (EVG) that may be administered when needed, vaginally or rectally, pre- or post-coitus, for flexible HIV prophylaxis. Specifically, we describe the lab-scale formulation development, preclinical mucosal safety and pharmacokinetics (PK) testing in rabbits, long-term stability, and scale-up clinical manufacturing of the lead TAF/EVG (20 mg/16 mg) inserts, which are currently in clinical stages of development. As designed, the inserts are small, discreet and portable, offering a number of promising attributes, such as simple and robust direct-compression manufacturing, fast initial disintegration/dissolution, and suitable mechanical strengths showing low hardness (<8 kg), friability (<1 %), and moisture content (<1 %). The inserts initiated disintegration quickly (~ ≤ 15 min) providing full in vitro release (>90 %) of TAF and EVG within 60 min of dissolution. The lead insert was selected from formulation prototypes that met the evaluation criteria for manufacturability and characterization, together with a dose-ranging PK study in non-human primates. Successful technology transfer for clinical development of the lead TAF/EVG (20 mg/16 mg) insert was confirmed under cGMP conditions. Based on the 12 months (lab-scale) and 24 months (clinical batch) stability data, the TAF/EVG inserts are projected to have a long shelf life of over 2 years, if stored at or below 30 °C/65 % RH. Overall, these newly designed topical inserts have formulation properties that enable stable storage and fast release of the antiretroviral payload from a small, portable and discreet dosage form. They are safe and effective when applied vaginally or rectally, before or after coitus, providing the basis for a new method of flexible on-demand HIV prevention for cisgender and transgender women and men. The TAF/EVG inserts are currently the most clinically advanced on-demand topical product, as attested by their completed and ongoing clinical trials.

The Influence of Performance Expectancy and Price Value on Favorable Behavioral Intentions Through Satisfaction With Viu Platform

The shift in video consumption from TV to online platforms is increasingly evident, especially among younger demographics who prefer streaming services such as Viu. The Viu platform's success is impacted by users' behavioural intention and perceived price value, which in turn influences user satisfaction and behavioural intention two essential characteristics Viu aims to attain and are critical to a technology's success. This research examines the impact of price value and performance expectancy on the behavioural intention and level of satisfaction of Viu users in Indonesia. This study employs quantitative data as its data type. This research is a causal associative study or cause and effect relationship. The data analysis approach used in this study is Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Using quantitative methods and questionnaires as a medium for data collection, this study involved 206 respondents who are Viu users in Indonesia. The study's findings demonstrate the strong effect of price value and performance expectancy on satisfaction and favourable behavioural intentions. Satisfaction is a crucial mediator in strengthening the impact of price value and performance expectancy on favourable behavioural intentions.

AI adoption: a bridge or a barrier? The moderating role of organizational support in the path toward employee well-being

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to assess how managerial capability affects artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and employee well-being now in a dynamic context of organizational change. This study investigated the role that managerial capability and organizational support play in facilitating successful AI technology implementation within organizations. The study seeks to provide an integrated perspective on how organizations can help mitigate the effects of AI anxiety and improve the well-being of employees.Design/methodology/approachA survey questionnaire was administered to collect data from 324 employees and managers working in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located in Pakistan. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed using Smart PLS version 4.1.0.3 to analyze the relationships between the study variables.FindingsThe findings of the study show that AI anxiety can significantly impact employee well-being. However, the relationship was moderated by organizational support. When organizational support was high, the effects of AI anxiety decline on employee well-being.Originality/valueThis study offers three important implications; it adds to our understanding regarding AI adoption and its effect on employee well-being by addressing how managerial interventions may facilitate the smooth integration of AI technology and examining the moderating effect that organizational support might have over the association between anxiety and employee well-being. Additionally, we have offered a nuanced view of the potential impact of AI adoption on employees and offered practical recommendations for organizations to undertake to address AI anxiety and promote employee well-being during AI implementation.

Patient Satisfaction with the Mawiidi Hospital Appointment Scheduling Application: Insights from the Information Systems Success Model and Technology Acceptance Model in a Moroccan Healthcare Setting

This article aims to find the determinants that affect patient satisfaction regarding the Mawiidi public portal in Moroccan public hospitals and assess its outpatient online booking system effectiveness using a model that integrates the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) with the Information Systems Success Model (ISSM) while adopting a quantitative research methodology. The analysis was conducted using 348 self-administered questionnaires to analyze eight key constructs, such as information quality, patient satisfaction, perceived ease of use, and privacy protection, among others. The results of PLS-SEM verified six out of eleven hypotheses tested, which reflected that information quality has a positive influence on perceived ease of use, which again enhances patient satisfaction. The major factors influencing the satisfaction and trust of patients in online appointment scheduling systems at public hospitals are highlighted. Indeed, privacy protection enhances patient satisfaction and trust. Service quality positively affects satisfaction but to a lesser degree. Website-related anxiety impacts perceived ease of use, although it has a limited influence on satisfaction. Such findings can inform suggestions for the managers of hospitals and portal designers to increase user satisfaction. This study uses a model from the TAM and ISSM frameworks, including cultural and socioeconomic aspects that apply to Morocco’s healthcare context.

Assessing EFL learners’ attitudes on Generative Artificial Intelligence: Development and validation of Generative Artificial Intelligence attitude scale for EFL learners (GenAIAS)

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) has emerged as a transformative force in education, particularly in the context of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction. This study aims to develop and validate the Generative Artificial Intelligence Attitude Scale (GenAIAS) to assess EFL learners’ attitudes toward GenAI. The research involved two independent samples of university students in Türkiye, with data collected through scales and analyzed using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The final scale, comprising 33 items, was categorized into four factors: Learning/Utility, Enjoyment, Usefulness, and Interest. The scale demonstrated good psychometric properties, including satisfactory convergent and discriminant validity, internal consistency, and measurement invariance across genders. The findings indicate no significant gender differences in attitudes toward GenAI, suggesting a general acceptance of GenAI technologies among EFL learners. Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between daily internet usage and attitudes toward GenAI. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on GenAI in language education and offers practical implications for integrating GenAI into language learning, highlighting the importance of fostering positive attitudes for successful technology adoption. Future research should further validate the scale with diverse populations to enhance its reliability and applicability.

METHODS AND TECHNIQUES FOR FORMING THE LEGAL LITERACY OF PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS BASED ON A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH

This article analyses the traits of successful pedagogical technology use based on a thorough strategy for developing legal literacy in elementary school pupils. Additionally, based on a variety of methodologies, techniques are given for the use of interactive methods and procedures to help primary school pupils build their legal literacy.

Analisis Faktor-Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Kinerja System Informasi Akuntansi

This research discusses the factors that influence the performance of Accounting Information Systems (AIS) in companies, which are very important in supporting operational efficiency and decision making. This system plays a vital role in managing financial data, but is often hampered by problems with the quality of human resources, technology and data management. The theoretical study uses the Information Systems Success Model and Technology Acceptance Model to evaluate AIS performance in terms of system quality, information, services and user acceptance. This research methodology uses a qualitative approach with document analysis, reviewing journals and related research reports. The research results show that the main factors influencing AIS performance include HR skills, choosing the right technology, data quality, and user adaptation to the system. Therefore, companies need to invest in human resource development, choose appropriate technology, and ensure accurate data management. In conclusion, to improve AIS performance, companies must manage these factors well so that they can support more precise and efficient decision making.

Traditional vs. Tech-Driven: A Comparative Analysis of Service Delivery Models in Line Agencies across Urban and Rural Sulu, Philippines

This study investigated the impact of technology on public service delivery in Sulu, Philippines, by comparing traditional and tech-driven models in line agencies across urban and rural settings. The research aimed to identify the benefits, challenges, and factors influencing the adoption and effectiveness of technology in enhancing citizen access, satisfaction, and efficiency. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys of citizens (n=300) and government employees (n=150) with qualitative interviews of key stakeholders (n=20) in both urban and rural line agencies. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, comparative analysis, and thematic analysis of interview transcripts. Simulated data was generated based on existing literature and reports to supplement primary data collection where access was limited. Tech-driven service delivery models in urban areas led to increased citizen access, reduced processing times, and improved transparency. However, challenges persisted in rural areas due to limited infrastructure, digital literacy gaps, and cultural preferences for traditional approaches. Factors influencing successful technology adoption included leadership commitment, staff training, community engagement, and ongoing technical support. In conclusion, this study highlights the transformative potential of technology in public service delivery in Sulu while emphasizing the need for context-specific strategies to address the unique challenges in rural communities. Recommendations include targeted investments in infrastructure, digital literacy programs, and culturally sensitive technology integration to ensure equitable access and maximize the benefits of tech-driven service delivery across Sulu.

Halal Medical Tourism and Reproductive Care and Services: An Overview of Malaysian Marketplace

Medical Tourism is one of the most significant industries in a country. It attracts medical tourists due to the successful and effective medical technologies as well as cost-effective healthcare system of a given country. However, a significant need lies in channelling medical facilities to “Halal” or “Sharia-complaint” medical care and services especially when we speak about reproductive care and services (RCS), a sensitive and private aspect in a Muslim’s life since a Muslim’s life should be regulated on Islamic guidelines. Hence, the need of Halal Medical Tourism (HMT) is echoed and efforts are being made for its establishment and realization. This study focuses on providing an overview of Halal Medical Tourism (HMT) constituents and HMT’s role in rendering Halal or Sharia-complaint Reproductive Care and Services (RCS). This paper utilizes qualitative analysis in collecting the contents related to Halal medical tourism studies. The contents have been gathered based on library research. The contents are analyzed further, and the results show that Halal Medical Tourism is an integral aspect covering tangible (Halalan Tayyiban) elements of medicine from medical ingredients (pharmaceuticals), and medical devices to intangible (Sharia-compliant) aspects related to hospital (non-medical) services and facilities. This paper proposes that the processes of a certain medical care or service must also be directed for Halal or Sharia-compliance (i.e. shariah permitted processes and treatment) to build a robust structure of Halal Medical Tourism. RCS, if made sharia-compliant, can be one significant medical domain for the improvement and fast-growth of Halal Medical Tourism in Malaysia.

Driving Digital Transformation: The Impact of SME Digitalization on Technology Acceptance and Usage in Small and Medium Enterprises of Yemen

This research investigates the relationships between digitalization, perceived usefulness, attitudes toward using technology, and actual system use of technologies within the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Yemen. Using a two-step structural equation modelling approach, the research investigates both direct and mediating effects. Data were gathered from 392 SMEs in Yemen by employing a survey research design. The measurement model was estimated to evaluate the constructs' accuracy, while the structural model was analyzed to investigate the proposed relationships. Findings reveal that SME digitalization significantly enhances perceived usefulness, which positively influences users' attitudes toward technology adoption and subsequently drives actual system use. Specifically, the analysis shows that improvements in digitalization practices lead to heightened perceptions of usefulness and favorable attitudes, ultimately resulting in increased actual system use. Moreover, the results indicate that perceived usefulness and attitudes serve as significant mediators between digitalization and system use. This research contributes to understanding how enhancing perceived usefulness and fostering positive attitudes can facilitate technology adoption in SMEs, providing important implications for practitioners, policymakers, and researchers focused on digital transformation. Overall, the findings emphasize the importance of strategic digitalization efforts to improve operational efficiency and promote successful technology acceptance in small and medium enterprises.

Understanding Digital Technology Integration in Merchant Marine College: Examining Teacher Digital Competency through TAM Framework

This study examines the relationship between teacher digital competency and technology adoption in maritime vocational education institutions. The research aims to investigate how digital competency influences perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, behavioral intention, and actual technology use among maritime educators. Using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework, the study explores the interconnected relationships between these variables in a specialized educational context. Data collection involved an online survey of lecturers and instructors from maritime vocational colleges under the Ministry of Transportation. The study employed structural equation modeling (SEM) using AMOS software for analysis, providing a comprehensive examination of the relationships between variables. Results reveal significant positive relationships between teacher digital competency and technology adoption factors. The findings demonstrate that digital competency strongly influences both perceived usefulness and ease of use of technology, which in turn affects behavioral intention and actual technology implementation. The research contributes to understanding technology adoption in maritime vocational education and provides practical implications for institutions developing digital competency programs. The study suggests that successful technology integration depends on both technical competency development and positive perceptions of technology's utility, supported by adequate institutional infrastructure.

Fostering Tech Integration: Teachers' Attitudes Mediating Lifelong Learning and Technology Integration Self-Efficacy

What matters in education now is teaching and learning in a transformational era. It is primarily about what we demand from education and how we acquire information. To manage the dynamism of learning and teaching, it is crucial to research the teachers’ integration of technology in the context of lifelong education. This study investigates how teachers’ perspectives of lifelong learning and technology attitudes influence technology integration self-efficacy. A structural equation model was constructed to represent the causal relationships between variables. In the 2021-2022 academic year, 386 teachers from various high schools in Eskişehir, Türkiye, were selected using the stratified sampling method. Descriptive analysis and simple linear regression analysis were used to analyze the data, and exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis determined the structural validity of the scales. The validity of the structural equation model was tested by means of path analysis and the model was found to be acceptable. Results show that teacher attitudes mediate between lifelong learning and technology integration self-efficacy, thereby influencing successful technology integration in the classroom. Examining the relationship between teachers’ perceptions of lifelong learning and their level of competence in adapting to technological advances is expected to contribute to relevant studies in this area.

Comparative assessment of a COVID-19 vaccine after technology transfer to Iran from critical quality attributes to clinical and immunogenicity aspects

During COVID-19 pandemic, international pharmaceutical companies put effort to build global manufacturing networks for vaccines. Soberana Plus vaccine, a recombinant protein based vaccine (RBD dimer), with the trade name of PastoCovac Plus in Iran, is based on a protein subunit platform in Cuba and completed preclinical and toxicological assessments. This study aimed at presenting the steps of vaccine technology transfer from Cuba to Iran. This study provides the first practical comparability results in Iran to ensure the quality, safety and efficacy of a protein subunit vaccine against COVID-19 after a successful technology transfer from Cuba. PastoCovac Plus was transferred to Iran at the formulation stage. The assessment of the active ingredient pharmaceutical (API) was achieved through physicochemical and clinical data collection and tests to assure if there was any adverse impact on the vaccination results. In order to assess the quality of the vaccine product after technology transfer, we sought different properties including regulatory features, physicochemical quality, vaccine potency and stability as well as its immunogenicity and safety. Following the evaluation of the clinical quality attributes (CQAs) based on the standard protocols, the results showed that the two vaccines are highly similar and comparable, with no considerable effect on safety or efficacy profiles. The CQAs were all in the acceptance limits in terms of safety and efficacy as well as clinical evaluation results. The immunogenicity evaluation also confirmed no significant differences between the vaccines regarding reinfection (P = 0.199) or vaccine breakthrough (P = 0.176). Furthermore, the level of anti-spike and neutralizing antibodies in the both vaccine groups was not significantly different indicating the equality of performance between the two vaccines. According to the results of the quality and clinical assessment of this study, we achieved an acceptable quality attributes and acceptant limits in terms of safety and efficacy of the vaccines pre and post technology transfer.

Pre‐Service Teachers’ Technology Integration in Pronunciation Instruction: Professional Identity and Value Beliefs

ABSTRACTTechnology brings new promises to transform second language teaching and learning. Successful technology integration depends on various factors, such as teachers’ professional identity and value beliefs. While scholars have investigated the influential factors for technology integration in language teaching holistically, studies focusing on specific language skills remain limited. With domain‐specific theories and technology applications, pronunciation instruction merits particular attention. In this study, the authors investigated how pre‐service teachers’ professional identity and value beliefs shaped their intended use of technology for pronunciation instruction. Five hundred ninety‐seven pre‐service English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers from China participated in this study. Structural equation modeling analysis identified educator identity orientation, learner‐centered orientation, didactic‐pedagogical orientation, and utility value beliefs of technology as significant predictors of technology integration for pronunciation instruction. In addition, results showed that utility value beliefs mediated the associations between professional identity and participants’ intended use of technology. These findings highlight the crucial role of professional identity and value beliefs in pre‐service teachers’ intended use of technology for language instruction. Findings suggest that teacher educators and teacher training programs may prepare innovative educators by fostering broad identity constructs and enhancing pre‐service teachers’ utility value beliefs of technology.

СВІТОВИЙ ДОСВІД НАУКОВО-ТЕХНОЛОГІЧНОЇ КЛАСТЕРИЗАЦІЇ В ЦИФРОВУ ЕПОХУ: ІНТЕЛЕКТУАЛЬНА ТА ПАТЕНТНА ДІЯЛЬНІСТЬ В РОЗРІЗІ ГАЛУЗЕЙ ЕКОНОМІКИ

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to carry out a comparative analysis of economic results and innovative activity within the scientific and technological clusters of the world, to establish the relationship between the population density of a certain agglomeration and the productivity of its inventors, the effectiveness of researchers and business efficiency, to evaluate the impact of digital technologies on economic success science and technology cluster. Design/methodology/approach – In the article, the author used the method of analysis to study the scientific literature that sheds light on the understanding of the phenomenon of the science and technology cluster, and the method of abstraction helped to separate the economic results of the activity of scientific and technological clusters from their environment. The formulation of conclusions regarding the patterns of development of modern world leaders among science and technology clusters was implemented using the methods of synthesis and generalization, and the comparison of researchers’ views on the priority of cluster activity in the economy was carried out using the method of comparison. The statistical method helped the author establish cause-and-effect relationships in the activity of science and technology clusters in the aspect of general development, and the graphic method provided visualization of the state of development of modern science and technology clusters in the world. Findings – The modern cluster paradigm of economic development aims to promote the deepening of connections between capital markets and advanced ICT and digital technologies, the development of the knowledge economy and environmental sustainability of production, the social orientation of technologies, and obtaining synergistic effects from joint scientific and research developments. The Global Innovation Index 2023 proved the first place in the rating of the world’s science and technology clusters by the economic results of clusters in the Asian region, however, the rating of science and technology clusters by intensity (relative to population density) does not confirm a direct relationship between the population density in a certain territory or in a certain city and economic results cluster. The result of the research was the revealed fact that the field of scientific interests of inventors and researchers of clusters today is expanding as fast as the needs of people, and therefore patent activity can be traced in bio- and medical technologies, pharmaceuticals and optics, information, digital, computer and audiovisual technologies, which is fully justified in the era of digitization and informatization of both the economy and society. Practical implications – The results of this research are of practical interest to everyone who is a direct participant in the science and technology cluster (scientists, economists, inventors,programmers, educators, officials, businessmen, etc.) and who is tangential to its activities, because they all get the opportunity to work on the principles mutual assistance for the sake of common goals, stimulated the development of local markets, scaled up their activities, promoted economic growth. Originality/value – The presented study covers both scientific and real economic results in terms of cluster activity of Japan, the Republic of Korea, the USA, China and other countries of the world, which allows focusing attention on the social behavior and mentality of the people of a certain country, economic and technological maturity, political will and institutional support contribute to the creation and development of science and technology clusters. The author proposes priority directions for strengthening scientific and technological clustering in the developed countries of the world, outlines the expected results from their practical implementation and determines the prerequisites for the beginning of their implementation.

Advanced Detection Techniques to neutralize Supply Chain Cyber-attacks on small and medium businesses in the United States: The Machine Learning and AI Approach.

Cyber-attacks targeting supply chains represent a significant and increasing risk for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the United States. This paper examines the role of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in detecting and mitigating these cybersecurity threats. Key challenges faced by SMBs include high implementation costs, a shortage of skilled personnel, inadequate data quality, and the complexity of integrating advanced technologies into existing systems. Despite these hurdles, the paper identifies strategic approaches that can empower SMBs to effectively leverage ML and AI, including affordable solutions, targeted training, and improved data management practices. It emphasizes the importance of addressing privacy and usability concerns to facilitate successful technology adoption. Recommendations include pursuing cost-effective, subscription-based AI and ML models, utilizing government incentives, and enhancing workforce skills through training and partnerships. Additionally, collaboration with larger organizations can improve data management and system efficacy. By implementing robust protective measures and increasing awareness through educational initiatives, SMBs can strengthen their cybersecurity posture and better navigate the evolving landscape of cyber threats.