Infrastructure Support Research Articles

An Appraisal of Institutional Framework for Guaranteeing Mine-Host Communities Right to Food in the ICGLR Sub-Region: Part II

Absence of strong institutions worth to realize good governance in the mineral sector and protection of human rights seem a challenge that face not only natural resources-rich developing states but also sub-regional initiatives. Strong institutions are said to depict features such as; independency, relevant infrastructure, relevant expertise and command of political support from the state(s) and or other organs. The International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR) sub-region has in place numerous regulatory organs with mandate over good governance in mineral sector and human rights preservation. Unlike other sub-regions in Africa, ICGLR is naturally endowed with plenty natural resources with regional and global value against the global threat of climate change. This paper, through qualitative review of primary and secondary documents namely; protocols, conventions, declarations, pacts, journal articles, books and internet sources examines how strong are the ICGLR institutions towards guaranteeing MHCs right to food. The study found that, despite of the established institutions at the ICGLR sub-regional level, they fall short of the international standards of robust institutions. Such institutions suffer from both legal and practical challenges namely; inadequate independency, inadequate human resources, little or no political will and feeble infrastructure. If the ICGLR sub-region intends to guarantee MHCs right to food, it may not escape eradicating the noted legal and practical challenges of established institutions.

Integration of ICT in Agricultural Extension Services: A Review

The integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) into agricultural extension services is transforming the way knowledge and resources are disseminated to farmers, addressing longstanding challenges of reach, efficiency, and inclusivity. Traditional extension systems, constrained by limited resources, outdated methodologies, and poor scalability, often fail to meet the dynamic and diverse needs of modern agriculture. ICT tools, such as mobile phones, internet platforms, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), drones, and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and blockchain, have revolutionized extension services by providing real-time, location-specific, and cost-effective solutions. This review synthesizes evidence on the role of ICT in enhancing agricultural extension systems, highlighting case studies such as India’s mKisan platform, Africa’s e-Agriculture initiatives, and the global Digital Green project. These examples demonstrate significant improvements in farmer access to timely information on weather, pests, markets, and best practices, leading to increased productivity and resilience.Despite these successes, several barriers impede the widespread adoption of ICT in agricultural extension. A pronounced digital divide, characterized by limited access to smartphones, internet connectivity, and electricity in rural areas, particularly in developing countries, restricts the reach of these innovations. Gender and socioeconomic disparities exacerbate these challenges, with women and marginalized groups often excluded from ICT-enabled benefits. Gaps in digital literacy among farmers and extension workers, inadequate infrastructure, and weak policy support hinder the scalability and sustainability of ICT interventions. Addressing these barriers requires strategic investments in rural connectivity, affordable technology, and capacity-building programs. Policies promoting public-private partnerships, funding for ICT-based innovations, and farmer-centric participatory approaches are critical for long-term success. ICT in agricultural extension include leveraging AI and machine learning for predictive analytics, expanding blockchain use for supply chain transparency, and adopting augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) for immersive farmer training. The integration of ICT into climate-smart agricultural practices and fostering global collaborations for technology transfer will be pivotal. By addressing challenges and seizing emerging opportunities, ICT can enable equitable, efficient, and sustainable agricultural development, ensuring food security in a rapidly changing world.

Concepts for a Semantically Accessible Materials Data Space: Overview over Specific Implementations in Materials Science

This article describes advancements in the ongoing digital transformation in materials science and engineering. It is driven by domain‐specific successes and the development of specialized digital data spaces. There is an evident and increasing need for standardization across various subdomains to support science data exchange across entities. The MaterialDigital Initiative, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, takes on a key role in this context, fostering collaborative efforts to establish a unified materials data space. The implementation of digital workflows and Semantic Web technologies, such as ontologies and knowledge graphs, facilitates the semantic integration of heterogeneous data and tools at multiple scales. Central to this effort is the prototyping of a knowledge graph that employs application ontologies tailored to specific data domains, thereby enhancing semantic interoperability. The collaborative approach of the Initiative's community provides significant support infrastructure for understanding and implementing standardized data structures, enhancing the efficiency of data‐driven processes in materials development and discovery. Insights and methodologies developed via the MaterialDigital Initiative emphasize the transformative potential of ontology‐based approaches in materials science, paving the way toward simplified integration into a unified, consolidated data space of high value.

Antimicrobial Stewardship in Saudi Arabia: A Narrative Review of Insights from Physicians, Pharmacists, and Nurses

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious public health challenge fueled by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are central to the proper use of antimicrobials, patient outcomes improvement, and resistance reduction. Over the years, AMS has taken top place in Saudi Arabia as part of its healthcare reform. Therefore, the present narrative review aims to summarize the opinions of physicians, pharmacists, and nurses regarding the current practices of AMS in Saudi Arabia. It discusses the successes, challenges, and importance of interprofessional collaboration in Saudi Arabia. Significant barriers include insufficient infrastructure and training, cultural factors influencing prescription practices, and relatively low penetration into decision-making roles. Successes include adopting explicit AMS policies, increasing awareness among healthcare professionals regarding AMS issues, and several ongoing training programs. Recommendations for AMS improvement consist of furthering interprofessional collaboration, building educational efforts, implementing advanced diagnostics, raising the level of authority of pharmacists and nurses, and investing in health infrastructure for better real-time surveillance and support for evidence-based prescribing.

Technology Integration in Teaching and Learning: Exploring Prospective Teachers' Perceptions, Practices and Challenges

The current study explores the inclusion of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in schools in teaching and learning practices in Pakistan. Twelve prospective teachers from public schools of a district in Punjab were chosen using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data and thematically analyzed through NVivo 15. The findings revealed five major themes: teachers' perceptions towards ICT, current implementation practices, challenges and implementation barriers, professional development, and support needs, and future perspectives and recommendations. The result of the positive attitude of teachers towards technology was explored as the potential to engage students, but some of the significant barriers were limited infrastructure, inadequate technical support, and insufficient professional development. The study revealed critical gaps between teacher's desire to adopt technology and its effective institutional capacity to implement. Recommendations suggest systemic professional development, improved infrastructure, and institutional support for effectively integrating ICT into Pakistani schools. These findings enhance the understanding of the complexities of technology integration within developing educational contexts and provide insights for policy development and resource allocation.

A Comparative Study of the Development Trends and Competitive landscape of the Electric Vehicle Market in China and the United States

This paper will perform a comparison of the Electric Vehicle (EV) markets in China and the United States, focusing on the patterns of development and the competitive environment. It examines issues such as legislation updates, infrastructure investments, market expansion, and the strategies of leading car makers. China has shown electric vehicle adoption through aggressive public investments in charging infrastructure, large subsidies, and strong support for its local manufacturers like BYD and NIO, via their centralized government-led strategy. Without a doubt, it is China that holds the key to the current worldwide electric vehicle market. In contrast, the U.S. proposes a decentralized structure, with a mixture of federal tax encouragement, state-level programs, and private-sector advances as illustrated by Tesla's leadership in electric vehicle technology. Despite the considerable federal funding for charging infrastructure, the U.S. still trails China, as far as both EV sales and the scale of infrastructure, are concerned. This paper showcases the electric vehicle technological development patterns observed in both countries with their impacts on the energy transition globally.

Using data from routine health information systems as a public good in Trinidad and Tobago.

This study aimed to explore the use of data from routine health information systems (RHIS) as a public good in Trinidad and Tobago, the challenges faced in doing this and opportunities for strengthening the health information system. For this descriptive qualitative study, purposive sampling was utilized to recruit 19 people who used or produced RHIS data. Online interviews were conducted via Zoom, and all interviews were recorded and transcribed. Pseudonyms were used to protect participants' identity. Transcripts were cleaned and analyzed using Dedoose (v. 9.0.17; Dedoose, Los Angeles, CA, USA). There was significant underutilization of RHIS data as a public good, primarily due to challenges related to data access and quality. Access to the data was stymied by burdensome bureaucratic processes, paper-based recording and storage systems, and ownership and security concerns. Data quality was adversely affected by a lack of standardized data collection forms and processes, staff training, data completeness, and also by technological and infrastructural constraints. Key opportunities for increasing the use of Trinidad and Tobago's RHIS data would include addressing the need for a national electronic health information system, ensuring adequate training for staff involved in data management, and developing a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation plan. Data quality and access must be improved to enable greater use of RHIS data as a public good in Trinidad and Tobago. The planned change from a paper-based to a national electronic data recording and storage system must be expedited, and it should be accompanied by the standardization of processes, and investments in adequate staffing and timely training. Appropriate technological and infrastructural support, as well as an improved data governance system, are also required.

Adherence to Indian public health standards 2022 standards: a cross-sectional study on infrastructure of health and wellness centres in Amritsar district of Punjab

Background: After independence since 1952 basic healthcare services are primarily being delivered through primary health centres (PHCs). Recently, the government has expanded services with health and wellness centres (HWCs) to offer comprehensive primary care. Indian public health standards (IPHS) has formed the basis of their updation since 2007 with latest coming up in 2022. It is a general belief that infrastructure is lacking but no studies have been conducted to assess them in the border district of state of Punjab. Methods: An observational cross‑sectional study was conducted among 8 urban PHCs (UPHCs), 17 rural PHCs (R-PHC) and 28 sub health centres (SHCs) of district Amritsar UPHCs selected by Simple random sampling whereas RPHCs and SHCs selected by two stages stratified random sampling) where available infrastructure was assessed using a checklist developed on basis of IPHS 2022. Data was collected by observation and interview with medical officer and community health officer. Based on the checklist, overall scores were calculated where presence/absence of infrastructure were scored as 1/0. The PHCs were then classified into very good (>80%), good (60-80%), average (40-60%), poor (<40%). Results: Basic utilities like 24-hour electricity and water supply were available in 100% of R-PHCs, 89% of SHCs, and 100% of UPHCs. Fire safety measures were present in 50% of UPHCs, 35% of R-PHCs, and none of the SHCs. Residential facilities were available in 35% of R-PHCs, 4% of SHCs, and none of the UPHCs. Regarding clinical infrastructure, 70% of R-PHCs (24×7 and non 24×7) had inpatient wards, but none were equipped with minor OTs. In comparison, 62% of UPHCs (24×7 and non 24×7) had inpatient wards, and only 25% had minor OTs. Among SHCs, 89% had consultation. Overall, 83% of R-PHCs and 75% of UPHCs were graded very good or good, while 82% of SHCs were rated average or poor. Conclusions: While basic amenities were widely available, significant gaps in clinical and support infrastructure were identified, particularly in SHCs, which lack fire safety measures, functional residential quarters, and dedicated health and wellness areas. These deficiencies underscore the need for targeted investments to enhance infrastructure across all HWC levels.

Mechanisms for the strategic development of critical infrastructures in the northern oil-producing regions

Subject. This article considers the fuel and energy complex as a strategically important branch of the Russian economy. Objectives. The article aims to analyze the infrastructure support for the development of the economy of the northern regions of Russia and the oil industry, in particular. Methods. For the study, we used a statistical analysis. Results. The article reads that mutual cooperation between the northern regions of the country will contribute to the development of the mining industry, which is of strategic importance for Russia, and the development of the social sphere, transport and communications industries will improve the attractiveness of the areas for the population. Conclusions. The formation of a critical information infrastructure functioning in a sustained fashion requires governmental support.

Revolusi Industri 4.0

Industry is one of the main points in a kind of regional economy which has the strength to support the economy in a developed region and is strong in competition. In technological developments that continue to grow rapidly, industry must be able to improve a method or strategy when experiencing globalization. Industry 4.0 ushers in an era of digital transformation that integrates advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and automation into industrial processes. The aim of this research is to analyze the readiness of the Indonesian industrial market to face the challenges and opportunities of the Industrial Revolution 4.0. This study uses various readiness indicators such as technological infrastructure, human resources and government policies to assess the extent to which Indonesian industry utilizes digital technology to increase productivity, efficiency and global competitiveness. Despite significant progress, some sectors still face challenges in technology adoption, skills development and infrastructure support. Recommendations are provided to accelerate industrial readiness to face global change through collaboration between government, the private sector and educational institutions. This research aims to analyze Indonesia's readiness to face the industrial revolution 4.0.

Energy Transition Study of the Scheme for Replacing Steam Power Plants with Nuclear Power Plants Regarding Safety Aspects, Supporting Infrastructure, and Regulation Availability

Coal has been an essential contributor to the modern economy, but it is also a cause of global climate warming and environmental problems. Therefore, many countries have undertaken initiatives to achieve net zero emissions and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in recent years, including Indonesia, with a genuine commitment stipulated in Law Number 59 of 2024 as part of the energy transition. A literature study has been conducted on the energy transition scheme of replacing coal power plants (CPP) with nuclear power plants (NPP) and its influence on safety aspects, supporting infrastructure, and regulatory availability. The paper aims to analyze the options covered in replacing the CPP boiler with an NPP and its effect on safety aspects, supporting infrastructure, and regulatory availability. A literature study compared implementation practices in Poland, the People's Republic of China, and the United States. The results of the analysis show that the replacement of CPP to NPP is applicable due to the similarity of systems and components between the two plants. The important elements in replacing CPP with NPP are site, reactor technology, supporting infrastructure, human resources, and regulations. Keywords: coal power plants (CPP), nuclear power plants (NPP), energy transition, regulation

Analysis of Student Information Literacy in State Islamic Religious Universities

Background of the study: Students need to have good information literacy in order to complete their studies effectively and efficiently. Purpose: to analyze the characteristics and information literacy of students at State Islamic Religious Universities (PTKIN). Method: quantitative approach with survey methods. Data collection uses online questionnaire distribution. Data analysis techniques use descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Findings: PTKIN students accessed social media ≤ 6 hours every day (60.23%); classified as generation Z (digital natives) aged 10-25 years (98.86%); the number of gadgets owned is 1 (88.64%); the majority have WhatsApp (100%), Instagram (92.05%), YouTube (79.55%) and Twitter (53.41%); the most frequently accessed social media is WhatsApp (61.36%); the purpose of using social media is as a communication tool (83.36%), looking for information to support the thesis (80.68%), looking for entertainment/relaxation (70.45%), sharing information, opinions and/or knowledge (68.18%) , interacting socially (54.55%), interacting with friends (53.41%) and filling free time while waiting for something/free time (53.41%). The information literacy level of students at PTKIN is classified as moderate and tends to be high with an average score between 73 and 90 (73 ≤ X < 91). Factors that are positively related to information literacy are the availability of infrastructure, accessibility, independence and social support from lecturers and parents. Only the duration of internet access is negatively related to student information literacy at PTKIN. Conclusion: Students at PTKIN already have sufficient information literacy to support the completion of their studies. However, information literacy needs to be improved in order to maximize study completion on time.

Transforming Trade and Environment: Digital Trade's Impact on Carbon Emissions in the European Union

ABSTRACTThe rapid expansion of digital trade is reshaping global economies, offering promising opportunities to mitigate carbon emissions. This study investigates the impact of digital trade on carbon emissions across 27 European Union countries from 2009 to 2023, presenting new insights into the environmental benefits of digital trade. The empirical findings reveal that digital trade significantly reduces emissions by optimizing industrial structure, promoting technological innovation and enhancing human capital. The heterogeneity analysis shows that this reduction effect is more pronounced in Northern, Western and Central Europe, where digital infrastructure and regulatory support may be more robust, and it is also stronger in highly innovative countries compared to less innovative ones. These results underscore the potential of digital trade as a driver of sustainable economic growth, providing valuable insights for policymakers aiming to leverage digitalization to enhance environmental sustainability, align with climate targets and foster a more efficient, low‐carbon economy.

Addressing under-voltage events in power systems with high renewable energy penetration

The increasing integration of renewable energy sources into power systems presents significant challenges for maintaining voltage stability, particularly in cases of under-voltage. Under-voltage events in power systems represents a significant risk to the grid's stability and efficiency. Such events commonly cause device malfunctions, a decrease in operating effectiveness, and, in severe situations, full system failure. This research investigates the fundamental causes of under-voltage scenarios and presents a novel methodology for addressing under-voltage issues by strategically integrating multiple sources of electrical energy. The objective of this technique is to solve instances of under-voltage and avoid the necessity for load shedding. The efficacy of the proposed strategies for maintaining grid stability and addressing under-voltage events is demonstrated through the presentation of case studies and simulations within an environment characterized by the presence of high renewable energy sources. The simulation results show that the strategic integration of renewable energy sources can effectively mitigate under-voltage conditions, enhancing voltage profiles and system stability. The present research demonstrates the potential of utilizing renewable energy source integration as a cost-effective and sustainable solution for under-voltage addressing in power grids with high renewable energy penetration, while also reducing the necessity for conventional voltage support infrastructure.

Adopting sustainable mobile learning: Investigating long-term integration at UEW with a focus on infrastructure, resources, and institutional support

This study investigates the long-term sustainability of mobile learning (M-learning) integration at the University of Education, Winneba, Ghana. It explores critical factors such as infrastructure, resource allocation, and institutional support. Employing a quantitative research approach, the study utilised a structured questionnaire to collect data from 69 respondents, including Level 400 students from the Information and Communication Technology and Communication and Media Studies departments. Key findings highlight the importance of robust infrastructure, adequate resource distribution, and comprehensive institutional backing for sustainable M-learning practices. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and institutions aiming to enhance the longevity and effectiveness of M-learning initiatives in higher education.

Behavioral weight loss interventions in college health centers: A qualitative analysis of barriers and facilitators to implementation.

Emerging adults are underrepresented in standard behavioral weight loss interventions (BWLIs). Offering BWLIs in college health centers may help to address obesity in emerging adulthood by reducing student barriers associated with participation; however, implementation barriers and facilitators for health centers are unknown. Health services center administrators and providers (n=14) and students eligible to participate in a BWLI (n=9, average BMI=29.8±4.2kg/m2) participated in semi-structured interviews. Interviews focused on the need for and appropriateness of BWLIs in health centers and perceived barriers and facilitators to their implementation. Participants generally believed that BWLIs delivered through a health center were appropriate and indicated that BWLIs would be a beneficial offering on-campus. Facilitators of health center implementation included availability of trained health professionals, intradepartmental relationships, supportive infrastructure and resources, and in-house planning and execution. Barriers included limited student use and knowledge of health center offerings, narrow referral/recruitment pathways related to stigma concerns, and challenges related to infrastructure, resources, and competing demands. College health centers are a feasible and appropriate setting to offer BWLIs, though barriers to implementation exist. It will be important to construct a plan for implementation to address unique barriers in health centers prior to BWLI implementation.

The role of entrepreneurial leadership in influencing the performance of SMMEs in the Vhembe district Municipality

SMMEs in the Vhembe district encounter distinct problems, such as restricted access to financing, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient support services. This study examines the impact of entrepreneurial leadership traits, including innovation, risk-taking, and proactive decision-making, on corporate outcomes such as growth, competitiveness, and sustainability. The study examined the correlation between leadership types and business success to provide actionable recommendations for governments and business leaders in promoting entrepreneurial leadership. The research utilised a qualitative methodology to investigate the influence of entrepreneurial leadership on small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs) in the Vhembe district. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews with 16 leaders of small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMMEs), offering a varied perspective across multiple industries and business scales. The findings indicate that entrepreneurial leadership substantially influences SMMEs in the Vhembe District, with transformational and collaborative approaches improving financial and non-financial performance, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The study indicates that implementing transformational and collaborative leadership styles can markedly enhance financial performance, innovation, and customer happiness for SMMEs in the Vhembe District. This research provides novel perspectives on entrepreneurial leadership by examining the distinct setting of the Vhembe District. It contests prevailing ideas by emphasising the necessity for a leadership strategy adapted to local dynamics and market conditions. The study's novelty and significance stem from its distinctive emphasis on the Vhembe District, providing a novel viewpoint on entrepreneurial leadership.

Analysis of soil bearing capacity to determine foundation design in Ngawi City, Indonesia

Abstract Improving economic value in a region can be achieved through planned infrastructure support. As one of the biggest shopping centers, Ngawi Big Market has revitalization activity. Before beginning the revitalization process, it is crucial to test the ability of soil to withstand the load, which is called the soil bearing capacity. In the process of this research, the analysis was carried out by evaluating geological and geotechnical conditions, and calculations of soil bearing capacity values. Analysis of soil bearing capacity value was using NSPT data which uses the equation from Luciano Decourt along data from laboratory tests. The lithology of the research area consists of siltstone, and the drilling results consist of silt, fine sand and clay. The land area of Ngawi Big Market is 15,000m2 with the building area of the previous market being 14,500m2. The permitted lowest bearing capacity is at point BH-T3, namely 6.7 tons at a depth of 2.0 meters, while the highest is at point BH-T1, namely 380.3 tons at a depth of 20.00 meters. Based on the results of the analysis, Ngawi Big Market’s revitalization project recommended to carry out the geotechnical engineering to strengthen the soil as well as detailed calculations of building loads so that they do not exceed the permitted bearing capacity.

The Impact of E-commerce on the Sales of Agricultural and Sideline Products

This study explores the impact of e-commerce on the sales of agricultural and sideline products, examining how digital platforms have transformed traditional marketing and distribution channels in the agricultural sector. The research underscores the significance of e-commerce as a pivotal tool for enhancing market accessibility and efficiency for farmers and producers, particularly in rural and remote areas. By leveraging e-commerce, agricultural producers can bypass traditional intermediaries, thereby reducing transaction costs and increasing profit margins. The study employs a comprehensive analysis of market trends, consumer behavior, and sales data to evaluate the effectiveness of e-commerce platforms. It identifies key factors that influence the successful integration of e-commerce in agricultural sales, including infrastructure development, digital literacy, and logistical support. The findings reveal a substantial increase in the reach and scale of market access for agricultural products, alongside improved price competitiveness. By facilitating direct interaction between producers and consumers, e-commerce contributes to greater transparency and trust in the supply chain. The conclusion emphasizes the transformative potential of e-commerce in reshaping the agricultural market landscape, advocating for policy support and investment in digital infrastructure to further enhance its benefits. This research provides valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to optimize the use of e-commerce in agricultural sales, highlighting the need for strategic planning and collaboration among policymakers, industry players, and technology providers.

"Adoption of Artificial Intelligence in the Construction Industry in Saudi Arabia: Challenges and Proposed Solutions"

This paper examines the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the Saudi Arabian construction industry, addressing key challenges, potential solutions, and its transformative potential. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizing technological innovation and economic diversification, the construction sector stands to benefit significantly from AI-driven advancements that improve productivity and enhance project management. Key challenges identified include technical barriers, such as data quality issues, complex system integration, and the limited availability of specialized AI tools. Additionally, regulatory hurdles related to compliance and data privacy, high implementation costs, limited ROI, and social resistance driven by job displacement fears and lack of AI familiarity pose significant obstacles. A survey conducted among industry professionals confirmed these challenges, highlighting difficulties in AI system integration, economic concerns about costs and talent shortages, and regulatory uncertainties. Social resistance to AI adoption also emerged as a critical barrier, underscoring the need for workforce training and change management strategies to foster acceptance. The paper proposes targeted solutions, including improving data integration capabilities, establishing comprehensive regulatory frameworks, providing financial incentives, and offering training programs to build AI-related expertise. Case studies and hypothetical scenarios illustrate AI’s potential benefits, such as optimizing resource allocation, enhancing safety, reducing costs, and streamlining project timelines. Government-backed initiatives like King Salman Energy Park (SPARK) emphasize the importance of infrastructure and state support in facilitating AI adoption across industries. These efforts align with national goals to transform construction practices and drive innovation. The findings demonstrate AI’s potential to revolutionize the construction sector, but overcoming existing challenges requires continuous collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and technology providers. Further research is necessary to validate these assumptions and explore practical strategies for AI integration, ultimately paving the way for a more efficient, innovative, and sustainable construction industry.