Technology Providers Research Articles

Barriers to Industry 4.0 technology adoption in agricultural supply chains: a Fuzzy Delphi-ISM approach

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify and analyze the barriers associated with the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in agricultural supply chains.Design/methodology/approachThe study initially identified thirteen barriers by conducting a literature review and semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. Subsequently, these barriers were validated and modeled using an integrated Fuzzy Delphi-ISM approach. Finally, MICMAC analysis was employed to categorize the barriers into distinct clusters.FindingsThe results provide considerable insights into the hierarchical structure and complex interrelationships between the barriers as well the driving and dependence power of barriers. Lack of information about technologies and lack of compatibility with traditional methods emerged as the two main barriers which directly and indirectly influence the other ones.Research limitations/implicationsThe robust hybrid Fuzzy Delphi and ISM techniques used in this study can serve as a useful model and benchmark for similar studies probing the barriers to Industry 4.0 adoption. From a theoretical standpoint, this study expands the scope of institutional theory in explaining Industry 4.0 adoption barriers.Practical implicationsThe study is timely for the post-COVID-19 recovery and growth of the agricultural sector. The findings are helpful for policymakers and agriculture supply chain stakeholders in devising new strategies and policy interventions to prioritize and address Industry 4.0 adoption barriers.Originality/valueIt is the first comprehensive, multi-country and multi-method empirical study to comprehensively identify and model barriers to Industry 4.0 adoption in agricultural supply chains in emerging economies.

NiCu-based catalysts with high selectivity for electro–oxidation of glucose to formic acid

Electrochemical oxidation of glucose to high valuable chemicals is an attractive strategy to realize sustainable development. Herein, we report that nanostructured NiCu oxide (NiCuO) reveal excellent activity and selectivity toward electrooxidation of glucose, which is synthesized from bimetallic alloy-NiCu on three-dimensional Ni foam. Only 1.15 V and 1.39 V are needed to reach 10 and 100 mA cm−2 for glucose oxidation reaction (GOR), respectively. The integrated two-electrode glucose electrolytic cell can deliver 10 mA cm−2 at the voltage of 1.29 V. It is 360 mV less than overall water splitting at the same condition. The main liquid product of glucose electrooxidation is formic acid, and its Faradaic Efficiency and selectivity are around 94.6 % and 93.3 %, respectively. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations is applied to confirm that NiCuO catalyst could optimize the Gibbs free energy in reaction, which could enhance catalytic activity toward GOR. This study shows that electrolytic glucose is a promising and energy-saving technology for high value-added chemical production and clean energy supply in the future.

Preparation of a nickel-cobalt-zinc alloy coating as SOFC connection material in deep eutectic solvent

The Ni-Co-Zn alloy coating is prepared in a deep eutectic solvent system using pulse power supply technology, and the feasibility of the deep eutectic solvent system as an electrolyte is confirmed through infrared spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. The microscopic morphology analysis shows that the plating layer is uniform and dense, and the grains are spherical particles, and it is detected that the oxidized weight gain rate of the plating layer is 7.6842 × 10−8 g2 cm−4·h−1 at 900 °C, which is 3 orders of magnitude different from the oxidation rate constant of the substrate. The corrosion potential increases to −0.281 V in 3.5 % NaCl solution, and the corrosion current density decreases to 3.259 × 10−7 (A/cm2), with an ASR of 43.64 mΩ cm2 at 800 °C. The results indicate that the Ni-Co-Zn coating can meet the requirements for an SOFC connector material.

Research on uninterruptable power supply technology for auxiliary winding of electric locomotive while passing the neutral section

PurposeAuxiliary power system is an indispensable part of the train; the auxiliary systems of both electric locomotives and EMUs mainly are powered by one of the two ways, which are either from auxiliary windings of traction transformers or from DC-link voltage of traction converters. Powered by DC-link voltage of traction converters, the auxiliary systems were maintained of uninterruptable power supply with energy from electric braking. Meanwhile, powered by traction transformers, the auxiliary systems were always out of power while passing the neutral section of power supply grid and control system is powered by battery at this time.Design/methodology/approachUninterrupted power supply of auxiliary power system powered by auxiliary winding of traction transformer was studied. Failure reasons why previous solutions cannot be realized are analyzed. An uninterruptable power supply scheme for the auxiliary systems powered by auxiliary windings of traction transformers is proposed in this paper. The validity of the proposed scheme is verified by simulation and experimental results and on-site operation of an upgraded HXD3C type locomotive. This scheme is attractive for upgrading practical locomotives with the auxiliary systems powered by auxiliary windings of traction transformers.FindingsThis scheme regenerates braking power supplied to auxiliary windings of traction transformers while a locomotive runs in the neutral section of the power supply grid. Control objectives of uninterrupted power supply technology are proposed, which are no overvoltage, no overcurrent and uninterrupted power supply.Originality/valueThe control strategies of the scheme ensure both overvoltage free and inrush current free when a locomotive enters or leaves the neutral section. Furthermore, this scheme is cost low by employing updated control strategy of software and add both the two current sensors and two connection wires of hardware.

The challenges to circular economy in the Indian apparel industry: a qualitative study

Purpose In recent years, researchers and practitioners have paid a great deal of attention to the circular economy (CE) due to its potential social and environmental benefits. However, limited attention has been devoted in the literature to studying the barriers to CE implementation in the apparel retail industry in emerging and developing nations besides China. Consequently, the purpose of this paper is to analyse the barriers to implementing CE in the Indian garment retail market. Design/methodology/approach This exploratory study uses a comprehensive literature analysis to identify the micro-level impediments to CE adoption in India's garment retail industry. The study aims to identify these barriers using a Delphi process, consisting of three stages. The first stage involves literature reviews and expert opinions, while the second and third stages involve survey methods with 14 industry professionals and academics. The use of the two primary data sources allows for triangulation of the data, which improves the validity of the findings and enables broader conclusions to be drawn from the results. Findings This study indicates that the top three challenges to implementing CE principles in the Indian apparel retail industry are “standards and regulation barriers” (84%), “strategic barriers” (82%) and “supply chain management and technology barriers” (79%). Strategies for overcoming these obstacles include gaining top management support, coordinating supply chain components, training and employee motivation. Research limitations/implications This study considers only Indian apparel retail industry, and the practical implications could potentially limit the study to emerging Asian economies. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first research of its type to explore CE obstacles at the organizational level in the Indian garment retail business. Thus, it contributes to a greater understanding of the topic and enables practitioners to develop effective policies and business strategies for CE and sustainability.

Managing Modular Instruction and Students' Learning Outcomes

This study was conducted to determine the level of management of modular instruction in relation to the student’s learning outcomes. The study was conducted among 31 teachers, 12 school heads, 55 parents, and 191 Grade 10 students in Paquito S. Yu Memorial National High School of Lower Timonan, Dulop National High School of Dulop, Dumingag National High School, all of Dumingag Zamboanga del Sur during the School Year 2021-2022. This study used the quantitative-correlational research design. The descriptive statistics included the use of weighted average mean, standard deviation, frequency and percentage distribution; and inferential statistic were done using Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman-rho correlation and t-test of r using SPSS and online data analysis calculators. The findings revealed that the respondent schools are highly equipped with educational technology to support modular instruction, have modules downloadable through the DepEd websites. The schools have sufficient financial support and material resources and it is properly utilized to sustain the massive reproduction of Self-Learning Modules (SLMs). Teachers were highly trained to manage modular instruction including the preparation of the contents, printing, distribution and assessment. They were also provided with adequate trainings to enrich their content knowledge with integration of educational technology. The contents of the self-learning modules were not only limited to the minimum essential learning competencies, rather it is enriched with in-depth discussions of concepts, visual illustrations, links for demonstrations and short videos. Moreover, the study concluded that the four groups of participants have similar perceptions on the level of management of modular instruction. Most of the student participants have satisfactorily achieved the minimum essential learning competencies in their English subject during the second quarter. The empirical evidence pointed out that even if the schools have highly evident provisions of technology and highly trained teachers, the students’ learning outcomes may not be very impressive. Finally, the study recommends that the Department of Education should allocate an additional budget for modular distance learning modalities; provide teachers with laptops, ensure reliable internet connectivity, provide assistance to teachers, design enhancement activities to improve students' learning outcomes; and encourage parents to support their children. Future researches should focus on the effect of modular instruction on higher-order thinking skills.

Public perception and acceptance of CCUS: preliminary findings of a qualitative case study in Greece

The development and implementation of carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) technologies plays an increasingly important part in European Union (EU) and global decarbonisation policies and strategies that seek to address climate change to achieve the Paris Agreement goals. Several studies have shown the important role social acceptance plays in determining the outcomes of CCUS projects and how social acceptance is shaped by the national and local contexts. Yet most studies on CCUS and social acceptance have focused on countries in northern Europe and North America despite the increasing numbers of CCUS projects in other regions of the world. This study seeks to help address this gap by conducting a case study on how local dynamics shaped people's acceptance and awareness of CCUS in a Greek community. Based on semi-structured interviews with six community members near a CCUS pilot plant, this single case study explores the factors and dynamics that shaped the interviewees' perceptions of CCUS technologies. Our findings indicate that, despite the low level of awareness of CCUS technologies, participants could draw on their situated knowledge to identify potential drawbacks with their application. We identified scepticism regarding the adoption of new technologies and the organisations involved based on past experiences, and a notable lack provision of technology and location-specific information as well public engagement by the project consortium. Our recommendations for future projects and community engagement include the early involvement of the public in project development, location-based transparent information, appropriate channels to facilitate knowledge exchange, and educational initiatives to build communities' capability to influence projects.

Worldwide Survey on Digital Assistive Technology (DAT) Provision.

Occupational therapists have long been involved in assistive technology (AT) provision worldwide. AT is recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) to enhance functioning, independence, and autonomy and ultimately promote well-being for people living with disabilities. With the digitalisation of societies, the everyday lives and occupations of individuals are changing, becoming more reliant on digital solutions. The development of digital assistive technology (DAT) also offers opportunities for people with disabilities to access, interact, and pilot the digital world. However, we do not know how occupational therapists are involved in DAT provision worldwide. A survey was conducted in the global occupational therapist's community in June 2022 to describe DAT provision and the factors influencing it. Occupational therapy practitioners were included (n = 660) in the analysis. In DAT provision, occupational therapists mostly provide advice to people, assess their needs, provide instruction or training, prescribe DAT, and fit DAT to people and their environment. The clients served through DAT provision are most frequently people with neurological impairments, chronic illnesses, sensory impairments, and older people. The reasons for providing DAT focus on education, work, school, and leisure. It is expected that DAT provision will enhance independence, self-esteem, occupational participation, and social relationships. Issues faced by occupational therapists when providing DAT are costs of product and funding schemes, sufficient knowledge, and access to knowledge sources. Survey respondents are mostly from Western countries with access to the Internet and the digital world, including having digital literacy, highlighting the digital divide that exists between world regions and countries, but also within countries worldwide. There is a need to continue research to better understand the issues related to digitalisation and the digital participation of people living with disabilities.

Exploring how the design and provision of digital self-management technology can improve the uptake by older adults with chronic kidney disease, diabetes and dementia: A modified e-Delphi study.

Objectives: As development and introduction of digital self-management technologies continues to increase, the gap between those who can benefit, and those who cannot correspondingly widens. This research aimed to explore the use of digital self-management technology by older adults with three highly-prevalent long-term conditions (chronic kidney disease, diabetes and dementia), and build expert consensus across the conditions on changes needed to improve effective usage. Method: This qualitative research involved a modified e-Delphi Study. The Delphi panel was comprised of experts with personal, academic or clinical expertise related to one of the long-term conditions and/or the development and use of digital self-management technology. The e-Delphi involved a round of online semi-structured interviews followed by two rounds of a structured online survey. Results: Fourteen experts participated in the study, with eleven of the fourteen completing all three rounds. Analysis of the interviews (round 1 of the Delphi) led to 7 main themes and 29 sub-themes. These were translated into 26 statements that formed the basis of the online survey questions. In the first administration of the survey (round 2) 19 statements reached consensus. After the second administration a further 6 statements reach consensus. Conclusion: The findings reflect expert consensus on barriers to the use of digital self-management by older adults with 3 different, but inter-related conditions, and identify ways in which the design and provision of such technologies could be improved to facilitate more effective use. It is concluded that both the design and the provision of technologies should consider a combination of individual, condition-specific and age-related requirements. By building a consensus on issues and potential strategies common across the three conditions, we aim to inform future research and practice and facilitate effective self-management by older adults.

Strategic Autonomy, REPowerEU And The Internal Energy Market: Untying The Gordian Knot

The “open” strategic autonomy discourse now serves altogether as a new narrative and overarching principle of EU energy policy. This article conceptualizes EU strategic energy autonomy (SEA) as the Union’s ability to choose autonomously its own path towards a decarbonized “energy mix”. Realizing EU SEA demands a more holistic energy policy to tackle external dependence on foreign suppliers of energy commodities, technologies, and raw materials critical to the green transition. In this context, joint external action is important; but coordinated internal action is even more so, as the nature and magnitude of external constraints also depend on internal choices among the Member States concerning transition pathways. The article focuses on the internal dimension of EU energy policy. The REPowerEU plan and related emergency measures adopted under Article 122 TFEU to guarantee solidarity in tackling the impending energy crisis only brought a partial answer and once again raised the question of the EU competence to act on energy security issues. It is argued that the shared competence and related limitations foreseen in the TFEU should not prevent the EU from implementing a long-term holistic policy to pursue a resilient decarbonization policy throughout the energy value chains. The EU may well become more relevant than in the past when it comes to the energy security of Member States. New regulatory tools may be needed to support the integrity of the cornerstone of EU energy policy to date – the internal energy market – in the pursuit of an “open” SEA. The potential contribution to safeguarding “open” SEA from EU foreign direct investment screening, the forthcoming carbon border adjustment mechanism, and the new EUforeign subsidy regulation are discussed in this context.

Screening the Possible Mental Health Issues in Adolescents

Abstract: The abstract reflects the collective decision of a group of computer engineering students who are passionate about exploring the intersection of technology and clinical psychology for young people. They see the transformative potential of data from insights to use technology to increase the efficiency and accessibility of health promotion for young people. The basis of their approach is a commitment to technological development and they aim to create advanced tools and platforms that engage young people digitally, leading to mental tests, that are more supportive and effective. Familiar with many aspects of youth health, these students are eager to collaborate. They believe that collaboration with professionals in fields such as psychology, social work, medicine and education is essential to develop solutions to mental health problems and mental challenges. Students emphasized ethical considerations such as privacy, consent, and technology provision at the center of their efforts. Ultimately, these briefs demonstrate their firm belief in the potential of computer engineering expertise to shape the future of youth mental health support, as well as the goal of promoting youth health and recovery through assessment, better use, and empowerment.

Providers or users of Industry 4.0-based solutions: how does the innovation ecosystem affect a company’s decision to engage in Industry 4.0?

PurposeCompany goals, behaviors and decision-making processes may differ depending on whether a given company decides to engage in the Industry 4.0 (I4.0) paradigm as a user or as a provider of I4.0-based solutions. This paper will consider this question in-depth by focusing on the extent to which the innovation ecosystem (IES) affects these two main strategies.Design/methodology/approachThe authors' study aims to analyze the impact of a regional information and communication technology (ICT) ecosystem on the implementation of I4.0 at the company level by using an original survey of 123 companies that are already engaged in the implementation of I4.0 in the French region of Hauts-de-France and by employing two sets of logit models.FindingsThe authors' empirical study demonstrates the importance of an innovation ecosystem-based strategy for I4.0 technology provision. It reveals that engaging in R&D collaborative projects and developing links and complex relationships with heterogeneous actors within the IES positively affects the likelihood of a given firm deciding to implement I4.0 as a provider of I4.0-based solutions. This does not, however, affect the probability of a firm engaging in the I4.0 paradigm as a user of technologies and solutions.Practical implicationsFrom a policy standpoint, this study could encourage decision-makers to engage with I4.0 development by developing policies targeting the reinforcement of IES at a regional level. This could also help to accelerate the adoption of I4.0 technologies by manufacturing companies and foster the development of I4.0-based solutions through specific company-targeted policies. The authors' study supports the need for manufacturing company managers to evaluate and identify the best technological strategies related to the I4.0 paradigm that meet their specific needs.Originality/valueThe authors' study shows that the decision to engage in the I4.0 paradigm as providers of I4.0-based solutions is more likely to rely on an innovation ecosystem-based strategy, while the decision to engage in the I4.0 paradigm as users of I4.0-based solutions is more likely to rely on the company’s internal strategies, resources and demand-side benefits.

Urban (UMaaS) and rural (RMaaS) mobility as a service (MaaS): practical insights from international practitioners and experts

The concept and potential of Mobility as a Service (MaaS) has been the subject of significant debate in academia and industry for nearly a decade. There are several city-based Mobility as a Service (MaaS) pilots globally. There remains a significant lack of practitioner evidence of MaaS with the focus on city-based solutions rather than in rural and suburban areas. To that end, this paper asks four research questions to contribute to the gap in Rural MaaS (RMaaS) and Urban MaaS (UMaaS); firstly, is MaaS a mobility option for rural areas given the identified evidence in scientific literature? Secondly, how do practitioner experiences with MaaS (in all areas) differ considering factors like phraseology, geography, available modes, transportation, the origin and implementation stages? Thirdly, what practical learnings can be drawn from practitioners in the field? Fourthly, what is the future of MaaS for rural and urban areas. The research and findings are based upon grey literature and twenty semi-structured interviews with representatives from research or government organisations, public bodies, MaaS technology suppliers, transport operators and experts. Each participant discussed and contributed to the practicalities around real-world applications of MaaS in urban, regional, or rural areas. The analysis produced 2 applied tools which will be useful to practitioners interested in MaaS; a Thematic Map visualising the common matters emerging from the interviews revolving around ‘People, Policy, Practice and Pilots (4Ps); a Practical Framework for Implementing MaaS tool, which can be used by any practitioner at any stage of a MaaS project.

Outcomes of remotely delivered behavioral insomnia interventions for children and adolescents: systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Pediatric insomnia is common and can be effectively treated with behavioral therapies delivered face-to face. Such treatments could also improve children's mood, cognition, and quality of life, and caregivers' wellbeing. There is a discrepancy between high needs and limited access to pediatric behavioral insomnia treatments, which could be improved by provision of technology enhanced interventions. No study reviewed outcomes of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of remotely delivered psychological treatments for pediatric insomnia. The current study aimed to examine (i) the outcomes of remotely delivered RCTs for pediatric insomnia/insomnia symptoms and (ii) whether gains made in treatment extend to functional correlates. We conducted a systematic review according to Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. PsychINFO, PubMed/Medline and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched for RCTs reporting on remotely delivered behavioral treatments for insomnia and insomnia symptoms. Data was abstracted and the risk of bias were assessed in November 2022 and November 2023. Seven RCTs (nine manuscripts) involving 786 participants, with the mean age from 19.3 months to 16.9 years, were identified. Four different treatments were used. Risk of bias ranged from low to high and was the highest for the randomization process. Across studies, significant improvements were found in some (but not all) sleep parameters, namely: sleep quality and sleep efficacy on questionnaires and on actigraphy, despite heterogeneity of the treatments used, age of participants and instruments employed to assess outcomes. Improvements gained in treatments delivered remotely was compared to treatments delivered face-to-face in 3 studies and were found to be comparable or slightly lower. No worsening was observed on either objective or subjective measures of sleep, except for sleep onset latency and wake after sleep onset that improved on questionnaires but worsened on actigraphy in one study each. Children's mood improved across studies on parent and self-report measures. Other possible functional gains were understudied. Our study provides preliminary evidence of improved sleep following remotely delivered behavioral treatments for pediatric insomnia, and improvements in children's mood. Further research is needed to develop individualized treatments that will cater for different developmental needs and types of insomnia symptoms and examine not only group but also individual outcomes.

Technical and Economic Challenges and Future Prospects of a Smart Grid - A Case Study

In order to improve grid efficiency, dependability, and sustainability, smart grid technology is being developed and implemented at the vanguard of updating the world's electrical infrastructure. In addition to looking at the potential implications of smart grid technology, this case study analyzes the technical and financial difficulties encountered during the implementation of a smart grid. Technical issues with energy management and system stability arise when intermittent renewable energy sources are integrated into the smart grid. To make smooth transmission, sophisticated algorithms and grid management strategies are needed. Maintaining data security and privacy is crucial since smart grids mostly depend on digital technology and data exchange. It is a constant worry to defend the grid from hackers and illegal access. The installation of sensors, smart meters, and communication equipment might come with a significant initial cost when implementing a smart grid. One of the main economic challenges is financing these developments while maintaining reasonable power bills. It may be difficult to strike a balance between the interests of technology suppliers, customers, and utilities. Real-time monitoring and control are made possible by smart grids, which improve energy distribution and minimize energy waste. In addition to lowering greenhouse gas emissions, this improves overall energy efficiency. Smart grids can enable EV charging infrastructure as electric vehicle (EV) use increases, providing potential for grid optimization and new income streams for utilities. Reliability could be increased and downtime is decreased in a smart grid when defects can be promptly identified and isolated. The implementation of a smart grid is not without its technical and financial difficulties, but the future seems bright. Overcoming these obstacles may result in an electrical grid that is more sustainable, robust, and profitable for customers as well as utilities. Stakeholder cooperation, flexible regulations, and continuous technical development are needed to address these problems. By providing practical applications and real-world insights into the implementation of a smart grid, the case study acts as a link between theoretical concepts. Stakeholders obtain a comprehensive comprehension of the intricacies involved by analyzing technical and economic obstacles. To maximize the potential of smart grid technology, this knowledge is essential for fine-tuning strategies and creating focused solutions.

Green Supply Chain Systems and Technology and Their Impact on the Performance of Economic Units in the Oil Sector

The research aims to find out the impact of the practices of green supply chain systems and technology - reverse logistics, green information systems and green manufacturing - on the environmental performance of the economic units operating in the oil sector. Realizing the impact of the practices of green supply chain systems and technology - reverse logistics, green information systems and green manufacturing - on the operational performance of economic units in the oil sector. Examining the effect of the practices of green supply chain systems and technology - reverse logistics, green information systems and green manufacturing - on the operational performance of economic units in the oil sector. Testing the proposed model for the effect of green supply chain systems and technology practices on the performance of the economic unit in the oil sector.(SPSS 23), where the researchers concluded, that green supply chain systems and technology are contemporary and important topics for economic units, because they seek to reduce negative environmental impacts and production costs, as well as an important way to make economic units sustainable and green. The researchers recommended it, the need for economic units to realize the importance of green supply chain systems and technology and their operations, because they have the full perception and vision and direct influence in aspects of economic units.

Effect of Renewable Energy Consumption on Economic Growth in Kenya

Despite Kenya having a massive generating capacity of renewable energy, its consumption levels remain significantly low. The low supply levels have driven the costs of production upwards leading to high energy prices thereby slowing economic activity occasioned by inadequate investments in the energy sector. However, there are conflicting results on the existing link between economic growth and renewable energy consumption in the developing world. This study purposed to establish the effect of renewable energy consumption on economic growth in Kenya. This study was anchored on the Neo-Classical Solow-Swan growth model. This study adopted the correlational research design and used time series data for the period 1980-2017 to determine the nature of the existing linkages. Capital and labour were incorporated as control variables. The granger causality results established the existence of a bidirectional and feedback relationship existing between renewable energy consumption and economic growth in Kenya. Vector Error Correction Model results showed that a unit increase in total renewable energy consumption led to a gross domestic product rise by 13,340 million dollars in the second year. Therefore, both the granger causality and Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) tests advocate for investment in the consumption of renewable energy if desired levels of economic growth are to be attained. Therefore, investment in modern energy generation and supply technologies and demonopolisation of the generation and supply of renewable energies to encourage private investments are recommended as the necessary measures to increase the level of renewable energy consumption, which in turn accelerates the rate of economic growth. Interventions such as tax exemptions on renewable energy equipment may encourage more uptake and consumption of renewable energies. This study may assist the government in the formulation of sustainable energy policies. This study may assist the government in the formulation of sound and sustainable energy policies for industrial and economic growth.

Impact of organisational factors on job performance of librarians in university libraries in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria

The study investigated the impact of organisational factors on job performance of librarians in university libraries in Delta and Edo States, Nigeria. Two research questions guided the study. Descriptive research design was adopted, with a population of 140 librarians from university libraries in Delta and Edo States. The total enumeration sampling technique was employed. Data were collected using a questionnaire titled ―Impact of Organisational Factors and Job Performance of Librarians in University Libraries Questionnaire (IOFJJPOLIULQ).‖ Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics (frequencies, mean, and standard deviation) to address the research questions, with the decision rule based on mean scores. The findings revealed that various organizational factors have a significant impact on librarians' job performance in university libraries in Delta and Edo States. Job performance level among librarians was found to be high. The study concluded that organisational factors play a crucial role in determining librarians' job performance in the states. High job performance level suggest that these organisational factors are likely well-implemented, positively contributing to librarians' roles and overall effectiveness. Recommendations included investing in continuous training and development programs for librarians; that ongoing professional growth opportunities will enhance job performance, increase job satisfaction, and improve retention rates. The study contributes to the knowledge base by demonstrating that organisational factors such as a positive work environment, library facilities, leadership styles, technology provision, and opportunities for advancement can influence job performance in libraries.

Scaling in social enterprises: The case of digital social innovations

While a significant body of research examines how offline social enterprises scale social impact, research on scaling in the case of digital social innovations is limited. This is an important issue to address because digital social enterprises have different resources at their disposal, which may facilitate or hinder various scaling strategies used by social enterprises. Distinguishing between three scaling strategies (scaling out, scaling up, scaling deep), we develop indicators to account for scaling in digital social enterprises. Using these indicators, we carry out a clustering analysis on a dataset composed of 189 civic engagement platforms in Europe. Our research reveals three types of platforms in terms of their scaling orientations, which are grassroots, technology provision, and data-based.

Calculation of the economic and environmental efficiency of introducing advanced technologies in the energy supply of buildings

This article discusses the use of advanced cogeneration technologies at existing combined heat and power plants, regulating the supply of thermal energy in a building using an individual heating point. For Uzbekistan, an urgent problem is the serious study of the use of energysaving technologies, in particular in the heat supply systems, for the efficient use of investments. The achieved effect of reducing specific energy consumption for the production and consumption of thermal energy to the level of world standards will ensure the energy and environmental security of the country, which urgently requires accelerating the implementation of these projects. The search for large and small projects for the technical and technological renewal of production to ensure the competitiveness of products, as well as the means and sources for this should first become the most important task and responsibility of the manager and engineering staff of each heat supply enterprise. The article provides calculations on the basis of which the payback, investment, efficiency of measures in the field of renewable energy sources for electricity and heat supply are determined, as well as the calculation of thermal energy savings when installing an individual heating point.