Technological Barriers Research Articles

The Triple Resonance of Innovation and Development in New Era News Media

With the rapid development of information technology and the diversification of social demands, the news media industry faces profound changes and the necessity for innovation. Based on the significance of innovation in the development of news media in the new era, this study addresses the current challenges in the innovation and development of news media, such as insufficient technological advancement, severe platform and data barriers, and a shortage of new media talent. The paper proposes strategies such as strengthening technological innovation and R&D investment, promoting cross-platform cooperation and data sharing, and cultivating and recruiting new media talents, providing valuable insights for the development of Chinese news media in the new era.

Elevating citizen engagement in the process of territorial development through digitisation

The purpose of the study is to examine the digitisation of the state system involving local executive bodies to identify effective strategies for engaging citizens in territorial development decision-making. The following methods were applied in the study: hermeneutic, statistical, structural-functional, and comparative methods. During the study, the main problems associated with the implementation of digital technologies in the territorial development system involving the country's citizens were examined, such as technological barriers, issues of confidentiality and data security, and uneven distribution of resources. This allowed formulating recommendations for problem resolution, namely, ensuring access to education, developing digital literacy among the population, devising effective measures to protect data, and guaranteeing the confidentiality of personal information. The paper also explores the prospects and threats to the economies of regions in the process of transitioning to a digital economy. Special attention is given to studying the indicators of the current state of digitisation in Kazakhstan, considering data from annual international ratings. The obtained research results can be used in the development and implementation of digital technologies in the territory management system at the international-regional level for the benefit of citizens.

The Transformative Impact of E-learning on Workplace Safety and Health Training in the Industry: a Comprehensive Analysis of Effectiveness, Implementation, and Future Opportunities

This study explores the transformative potential of E-learning in workplace safety and health training. This highlights the flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness of E-learning for both employers and employees. This study uses a multi-faceted approach, including literature review, case studies, expert interviews, technological assessment, and data analysis, to provide a comprehensive analysis. It also explores the use of emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in E-learning. The findings revealed that E-learning can enhance knowledge retention, reduce workplace accidents, and increase employee engagement. However, challenges such as technological barriers and resistance to new methods persist. The study concludes by recommending a gradual implementation approach, content customization, integration of emerging technologies, continuous assessment, and strategies to maintain high levels of employee engagement.

Moderating Role of Technology Self-Efficacy on Fintech Usage and Digital Financial Inclusion of Women in Rural Uganda

Digital financial inclusion (DFI) especially among rural women remains a significant challenge in Uganda. Despite the potential benefits of fintech’s, limited technology self-efficacy (TSE) among rural women hampers their effective usage. This study examined how TSE influences the relationship between fintech usage and DFI among these women. Data were gathered via a structured questionnaire from 384 women vendors in Mbale main market, employing an explanatory, quantitative, cross-sectional design. Using hierarchical regression and Hayes PROCESS Macro V 4.0, the study assessed both direct relationships and the moderating effect of TSE. Results indicate that both fintech usage and TSE positively impact DFI, with TSE significantly enhancing the association between fintech usage and DFI. Based on these findings, the study recommends that policymakers support fintech adoption through targeted education programs to improve TSE among rural women. Additionally, user-friendly interfaces and supportive systems are crucial in overcoming technological barriers and boosting confidence. However, limitations include the study’s cross-sectional approach, focus on women vendors in a specific district, and potential social desirability bias. Future research should consider longitudinal studies, cultural aspects of fintech adoption, and mixed-methods data collection to deepen understanding of the variables.

Application of Public-Private Partnership Mechanisms to Ensure Innovative Development of the Healthcare Sector

INTRODUCTION. The pursuit of technological sovereignty in the current geopolitical situation has led to a growing emphasis on studying relations in the field of government support for healthcare innovation, in particular, the institute of public–private partnership (PPP). In the face of the challenges presented by sanctions, the economic crisis, and a potential deficit in sustainably competitive national innovative medical products, the Russian government is confronted with the necessity of financing the development and production of innovative medical products, including through involving private partners (investors). The use of PPP mechanisms is essential for the achievement of technological sovereignty. In addition to attracting private capital and competences, PPP mechanisms can significantly accelerate the development, realisation, and introduction of innovative medical products, improve the quality of medical care, and increase the production of medicines and medical devices.AIM. This study aimed to analyse existing PPP mechanisms for the development of the Russian healthcare, science, and technology sectors within the framework of state–business relations and to identify optimal models for the development, realisation, introduction, and production of innovative medical products.MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study analysed Russian federal legislation using an information-based analytical approach to identify the most promising mechanisms for innovative development in healthcare, with a focus on PPP models.RESULTS. The article considers frequently encountered forms of possible government involvement in and support of innovative healthcare development with the aim of increasing efficiency and scaling up the realisation and introduction of innovative medical products. Additional aspects covered include the funding of technological sovereignty projects, the expansion of preferential regimes, and the concept of using PPP models. The article presents various PPP realisation mechanisms, including special investment contracts, concession agreements, and PPP agreements, which allow placing infrastructure facilities under the management of private partners. The transferred facilities may include production facilities, research centres, and other facilities necessary for innovative development. The article pays particular attention to the terms and features of concession agreements in the healthcare sector, considers the distribution of duties and responsibilities between the parties involved, and investigates the use of the risk-based approach. Additionally, the article analyses established business practices to identify conditions that are necessary for the parties to a concession agreement.CONCLUSIONS. The realisation of PPP projects in the innovative development of the healthcare sector requires taking into account and overcoming constraining factors, including technological and administrative barriers that may hinder effective development. The authors believe that the most preferable PPP form is the concession agreement model.

A Critical Review on Various Buffer Layers used to Enhance the Photovoltaic Performance of Organic Solar Cells

Abstract: Due to the high need for sustainable energy sources, there has been a tremendous increase in SC (solar cell) production and research in recent years. Despite the fact that inorganic SC has led the SC consumer market due to its exceptional efficiency, its expensive and difficult manufacture method makes it unaffordable. Hence alternative technology for SC has been explored by researchers to overcome the draw backs of inorganic SC fabrication. OSC (organic solar cell) alternatively known as polymer SC has the advantage of having lightweight, low production cost, and simple device structure. During the last few years, significant attention has been given in order to overcome the material and technological barriers in OSC devices to make them commercially viable. Buffer layers play a significant part in improving the power conversion efficiencies in OSCs, thus it is necessary to comprehend the underlying microscopic mechanisms that underlie the advancements in order to support the current qualitative knowledge. In this review article, we have studied extensively the impact of different BLs (buffer-layer) in enhancing the PCE (power conversion efficiency) and absorption capabilities of OSCs.

Telemedicine: Bridging the Gap in Providing Primary Care to Rural Area Patients Across India

Telemedicine has emerged as a transformative solution to address the significant healthcare disparities faced by rural India, where over 70% of the population resides. In this article, the evolution of telemedicine in India, its current landscape, and its potential to revolutionize primary healthcare delivery in rural areas are reviewed. Despite progress in establishing Primary Health Centers, rural healthcare infrastructure remains underutilized due to staffing shortages and other challenges. Telemedicine offers a lifeline by bridging critical gaps in primary care, with government initiatives such as E-Sanjeevni and private entities such as M-Swasth and Apollo TeleHealth expanding access to healthcare services. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of more advanced, patient-centric telemedicine models incorporating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and Internet of Things technologies. These innovations aim to provide rural communities with healthcare standards comparable to urban areas. However, challenges persist, including technological barriers, digital literacy gaps, and concerns about data security and privacy. To fully realize telemedicine’s potential, a multifaceted approach is necessary. This includes culturally adapting platforms for rural populations, strengthening data protection legislation, enhancing digital infrastructure, and increasing digital literacy. The collaborative efforts of government bodies, private enterprises, healthcare professionals, and non-profit private organizations are crucial in overcoming these challenges. By embracing telemedicine and addressing its implementation barriers, India can bridge the healthcare gap, improve the quality of life for millions of rural residents, and potentially catalyze economic development in rural areas.

Impact of COVID-19 on Exercise-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation: What Lessons Have We Learned?

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had a major global impact on health care, including the delivery, modality, and importance of outcomes in pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). This review discusses the impact of the pandemic on PR and the changes that were required to maintain its delivery. This article reviews the current evidence on PR during the COVID-19 pandemic period, focusing on delivery models, modalities, outcomes, perspectives, and barriers. A search of the MEDLINE, Embase, and SciELO databases and the Cochrane Library on this topic was conducted between December 1, 2019 and August 1, 2023. Studies were reviewed and relevant topics were included in this narrative. Rehabilitation of patients with severe acute COVID-19 and symptoms of long COVID has been challenging. The number of rehabilitation programs worldwide is still low, and community-based programs are still rare. Integrated programs with a multidisciplinary approach and exercise therapy with individualized prescription based on symptoms have been an interesting strategy. Telerehabilitation and outpatient rehabilitation are both effective in the treatment of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, the uptake of PR remains considerably low, and technological barriers for patients and lack of technological resources in low-income countries affect the delivery of these services in much of the world.

Exploring theoretical constructs of blockchain technology in banking: Applications in African and U. S. financial institutions

This review paper explores the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of blockchain technology within the banking sectors of African and U.S. financial institutions. It delves into key theoretical constructs such as Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), smart contracts, and cryptographic security, examining their potential to revolutionize banking operations through enhanced efficiency, security, and transparency. The paper contrasts the applications and challenges faced by banks in Africa and the U.S., highlighting the unique opportunities and hurdles in each region. Regulatory environments, technological barriers, and market potential are critically analyzed to understand the landscape of blockchain adoption in banking. The review underscores the transformative potential of blockchain in banking while suggesting areas for future research aimed at overcoming challenges and harnessing emerging opportunities for innovation and growth in the sector.

The Prospects of Controlling Open Burning of Crop Residues in Thailand: A Quantitative Assessment of Implementation Barriers and Costs

The open burning of agricultural crop residues poses a sizable threat to Southeast Asia’s near-term prosperity and long-term sustainability. Though Southeast Asia’s policymakers have adopted burning bans and other solutions to curb this threat, few studies have systematically assessed their implementation prospects. This study offers a novel data-driven assessment of those prospects in Thailand. More concretely, it estimates how much economic, technological, institutional, and social barriers could slow the implementation of burning restrictions featured in Thailand’s PM2.5 control plan. This study finds that institutional/social barriers delay implementation more than technical/economic barriers, resulting in about twice the level of PM2.5 emissions relative to an effectively implemented policy scenario over a 10- to 20-year period. This study also demonstrates that the costs of overcoming social/institutional barriers are approximately 14 million US dollars annually over a ten-year period. This figure is equivalent to about a 70% increase on the 21 million US dollars planned for controlling burning in 2026 in Thailand. The approach employed in this study—though not free of imperfections—can also be used for finer-grained comparison of the barriers/costs of managing different crop residues in Thailand and beyond.

Adoption of cryptocurrencies in small and medium-sized enterprises: A strategic approach to enhancing financial inclusion and innovation

This review paper explores cryptocurrency adoption's strategic benefits and challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), emphasizing its potential to enhance financial inclusion and drive innovation. The paper overviews cryptocurrencies' history, key characteristics, and current adoption trends in various sectors. The paper examines the importance of financial inclusion and innovation for SMEs through a comprehensive literature review, highlighting how cryptocurrencies can reduce transaction costs, increase access to global markets, and improve financial transparency and security. The analysis also addresses the significant challenges SMEs face, such as regulatory and legal issues, technological and operational barriers, and market volatility. Practical recommendations for SMEs considering cryptocurrency adoption are provided, including steps for compliance, technological integration, risk management, and leveraging new business models. This paper aims to offer a balanced perspective, guiding SMEs in navigating the complexities of cryptocurrency adoption while maximizing its benefits.

Evaluating Mobile Wallet Adoption Barriers Using Fuzzy Mathematical Model

A tremendous amount of research has been done on the factors influencing mobile wallet adoption as mobile wallet technology has seen rapid growth. Using expert opinion and Fuzzy PROMETHEE approach, this study investigates the key barriers to mobile wallet adoption. Mobile wallet adoption is constrained by Technological, security and infrastructural barriers, making adoption more challenging when user acceptance is skewed in emerging markets. In this study, we use the F-PROMETHEE to rank these barriers based on expert opinions. A panel of fintech and digital payments experts assessed the key adoption obstacles. Included in the PROMETHEE method were methods for handling variability or uncertainty through fuzzy logic and through subjective expert judgments. The results suggest that the major barriers to the adoption of mobile wallets were identified as risk and usage constraints. Moreover, value barriers are a leading factor. This study found that the risk and value barriers are the two principal risks that must be overcome to raise the client accepted rate of m-wallet services. A step forward in the assessment of such obstacles is the innovative use of a fuzzy mathematical model, which provides a more complex and adaptable approach than traditional methods. This study has learnt a few lessons that can help policy makers and industry players understand how to overcome the main barriers to mobile wallet adoption.

Challenges in implementing renewable energy initiatives in Pakistan

Pakistan's growing population and rising energy demand call for sustainable energy solutions. Renewable energy presents an ideal option, but the country faces several challenges in implementing these initiatives. This paper explores the financial, political, social, and technological barriers to renewable energy development in Pakistan, while offering potential solutions for overcoming these challenges.

Investment Research of China Medical Device Industry under the Concept of Corporate Finance — Take Yuyue Medical Co., Ltd. as Example

With the optimization of China’s healthcare policy, the rise of the aging population, the increasing health awareness of society, and the impact of the global epidemic, China’s medical device industry has become a key market for investors. However, compared with the mature and well-funded medical device companies in overseas developed countries, China’s local medical device companies have apparent disadvantages and jumping battles. Yuyue Medical Co., Ltd. is a prominent player in the medical device industry in China, having sustained a significant profit margin over an extended period. Its profitability has changed over the post-epidemic period, in any case. Given Yuyue Medical Co., Ltd.’s exceptional standing in the medical equipment sector, an analysis of the company as an industry investment case makes sense. Based on Yuyue Medical Co., Ltd. as the industry investment benchmark, the study analyses the industry’s competitive development situation, financial performance, and impact on the external environment by adopting Porter’s Five Forces, ratio analysis, and PESTEL. The study found that China’s medical device industry has growth potential due to the low bargaining power of customers and suppliers, high technological barriers, and low threat of substitution by new entrants. Yuyue Medical Co., Ltd. has healthy financial performance and several advantages from the external environment, so Yuyue Medical Co., Ltd. is worthy of investment.

Digital Tele-Counseling for Sustainable Maternal Health Services in Indonesia Focus on Telelactation

Breastfeeding is essential for infant health and development, yet Indonesia faces challenges in meeting global breastfeeding targets. This review examines the potential of tele-counseling (telelactation) as a solution to improve breastfeeding support in the digital era, focusing on overcoming geographical and service delivery barriers. A systematic literature search covering PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and local Indonesian journals identified 25 articles from 2019 to 2023, with 14 unique studies meeting inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that telelactation primarily utilizes WhatsApp groups, Androidbased apps, and online counseling sessions, resulting in improved breastfeeding techniques, increased exclusive breastfeeding rates, and enhanced maternal knowledge. However, privacy concerns and technological barriers persist, though these are addressed through specialized training and ongoing support for healthcare providers. Telecounseling demonstrates promise in supporting breastfeeding in Indonesia, though further research is needed to address geographical limitations and assess longterm impacts. Integrating telecounseling into national breastfeeding policies could significantly advance maternal and child health outcomes in Indonesia.

Challenges And Strategies For Implementing Performance-Based Capitation In Indonesian Community Health Center : A Scoping Review

This study examines the implementation and challenges of performance-based capitation (KBK) at Community Health Centers (Puskesmas) in Indonesia, as a part of the National Health Insurance Program, aiming to improve the efficiency and quality of primary health services. Despite its potential, the implementation of KBK faces various challenges including inadequate human resources, limited infrastructure, and insufficient monitoring systems. The study uses a scoping review framework based on the Public Health Care Monitoring Conceptual Framework by WHO, analyzing 11 selected studies from 2021 to 2024. Findings indicate that internal factors such as management capacity, health worker competence, and organizational culture significantly impact the effectiveness of KBK. External factors like local government support, funding policies, and infrastructure availability also play crucial roles. Technological barriers, particularly in remote areas, hinder optimal policy implementation. The study emphasizes the need for clear regulations, consistent policy dissemination, and effective monitoring to ensure successful KBK implementation. Recommendations include strengthening leadership, training health workers, improving infrastructure, and enhancing digital health technology utilization. These strategies aim to optimize resource allocation, enhance service access, and improve patient satisfaction in Indonesia’s primary health care system.

Impact of Virtual Learning on Student Performance and Engagement in Remote Hilly Areas of Uttarakhand

The rapid shift to virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic brought significant changes to the education system, especially in geographically challenging regions like the remote hilly areas of Uttarakhand, India. This study explores how these shifts affected high school students' academic performance and engagement in virtual classrooms, given the unique challenges posed by limited infrastructure and connectivity. This study investigates the impact of virtual learning on student performance and engagement in the remote hilly areas of Uttarakhand, India. With the sudden shift to virtual education during the COVID-19 pandemic, schools in these regions faced unique challenges due to their geographic isolation, lack of internet access, and frequent power outages. The study aims to assess how these conditions have influenced the effectiveness of virtual learning and its impact on students' academic outcomes and engagement levels. A total of 51 high school students from 05 government schools in remote areas of Uttarakhand participated in this research. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, focusing on students’ experiences with virtual learning, their academic performance before and after the shift, and their engagement with online classes. The study used both quantitative and qualitative methods, including descriptive statistics, logistic regression, and MANOVA, to analyze the data. Findings indicate that while virtual learning provided an essential educational lifeline during the pandemic, students in remote areas encountered significant barriers that hindered their learning experiences. Limited internet access and frequent electricity cuts were among the primary obstacles reported. Despite these challenges, a majority of students found virtual classrooms useful for maintaining continuity in their education. The study also reveals that virtual learning positively influenced student engagement, particularly in subjects that incorporated interactive content. However, the overall academic performance showed mixed results, with some students struggling due to the absence of traditional classroom interaction and practical learning opportunities. This research highlights the need for improved infrastructure and policy interventions to support virtual education in remote regions. It concludes that while virtual learning has potential, addressing technological and logistical barriers is crucial for ensuring equitable and effective learning experiences for all students in such areas.

Fair Energy Trading in Blockchain-Inspired Smart Grid: Technological Barriers and Future Trends in the Age of Electric Vehicles

The global electricity demand from electric vehicles (EVs) increased by 3631% over the last decade, from 2600 gigawatt hours (GWh) in 2013 to 97,000 GWh in 2023. The global electricity demand from EVs will rise to 710,000 GWh by 2030. These EVs will depend on smart grids (SGs) for their charging requirements. Like EVs, SGs are a booming market. In 2021, SG technologies were valued at USD 43.1 billion and are projected to reach USD 103.4 billion by 2026. As EVs become more prevalent, they introduce additional complexity to the SG landscape, with EVs not only consuming energy, but also potentially supplying it back to the grid through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies. The entry of numerous independent sellers and buyers, including EV owners, into the market will lead to intense competition, resulting in rapid fluctuations in electricity prices and constant energy transactions to maximize profit for both buyers and sellers. Blockchain technology will play a crucial role in securing data publishing and transactions in this evolving scenario, ensuring transparent and efficient interactions between EVs and the grid. This survey paper explores key research challenges from an engineering design perspective of SG operation, such as the potential for voltage instability due to the integration of numerous EVs and distributed microgrids with fluctuating generation capacities and load demands. This paper also delves into the need for a synergistic balance to optimize the energy supply and demand equation. Additionally, it discusses policies and incentives that may be enforced by national electricity carriers to maintain grid reliability and manage the influx of EVs. Furthermore, this paper addresses emerging issues of SG technology providing primary charging infrastructure for EVs, such as incentivizing green energy, the technical difficulties in integrating diverse hetero-microgrids based on HVAC and HVDC technologies, challenges related to the speed of energy transaction processing during fluctuating prices, and vulnerabilities concerning cyber-attacks on blockchain-based SG architectures. Finally, future trends are discussed, including the impact of increased EV penetration on SGs, advancements in V2G technologies, load-shaping techniques, dynamic pricing mechanisms, and AI-based stability enhancement measures in the context of widespread SG adoption.

Assistive Technology Uses and Barriers in the Home and Workplace for Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

Assistive technology (AT) has been successfully used by researchers and practitioners to increase task completion and independence in work and home environments for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While prior research has shown increased outcomes of incorporating AT into daily tasks, research has also indicated that actual use of AT in these settings is much lower. The current qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with a sample of 25 adults (22 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and three job coaches) to examine the perceived use and implementation of AT into home and work environments, along with potential challenges and barriers. Interviews were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. Three themes were identified: (1) technologies used to support daily living skills, (2) technologies used to support employment and (3) challenges and barriers to using technologies. Findings indicate that while individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are using a variety of AT in their homes both successfully and independently, they have extremely limited use in their workplaces. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.

Enhancing EFL Learning Through Multimodal Integration: The Role of Visual and Auditory Features in Moroccan Textbooks

This study examines the impact of multimodal integration, particularly the combination of visual and auditory elements, on EFL learning through Moroccan textbooks, specifically English Spotlight 1 and English Horizons. It investigates how these educational materials rely on visuals, diagrams, and audio tools to foster comprehension, retention, and engagement among secondary school students in Morocco. Employing a mixed-methods approach that includes both qualitative and quantitative analyses, the study evaluates the effectiveness of these features from the viewpoints of students and teachers. The results indicate that visual components significantly and positively affect vocabulary acquisition and grammatical comprehension, while auditory elements enhance listening skills and pronunciation. The research emphasizes the necessity for more advanced multimodal content in Moroccan EFL education and identifies technological barriers that impede full integration. It recommends an increased emphasis on multimodal resources in textbook development and the improvement of technological infrastructure in educational institutions.