Technology Centers Research Articles

Preface

The International Conference on Power System and Energy Technology (ICPSET) has confirmed once again this year the enthusiasm and determination of students and young researchers to play a major role in the scientific progress. Since 2020, we have gathered together to discuss the most recent developments and achievements on power system and energy technology, and we firmly convince that sharing our expertise and experience is the foundation of research activity. The 2024 3rd International Conference on Power System and Energy Technology (ICPSET 2024) took place from July 5th to 7th, 2024 in Hangzhou, China, attracting more than 100 leading delegates worldwide. The format we chose is a formal meeting primarily aimed at graduate students and leading researchers, who were encouraged to present their work through oral or poster presentations that provide genuine engagement of the audience and cross-pollination of ideas. The main purposes of the conference were to create an international forum for researchers, both experimentalists and theorists, and foster fruitful collaborations across different branches of power system and energy technology. With the strong organizing team, committee member, the great number of excellent submission as well as the wide international fame, the ICPSET was held for the third time. The success of this year’s event was testified by an increased number of participants and institutions all around the world. This resulted in an extremely rich and interactive keynote speech, oral and poster session that covered several areas related to power system and energy technology. With the intent of broadening the contents and stimuli adopting academic communication, the keynote speech part was held. This choice reflects the growing importance of the activity performed by scientists and researchers as a way of increasing their expertise and developing soft skills. Included among the keynote speakers were Professor Qian Chen (Jiangsu University, China), Professor Qingshan She (Hangzhou Dianzi University, China), Professor Jingfeng Mao (Nantong University, China), Associate Professor Zafar Said (University of Sharjah, the United Arab Emirates), as well as Associate Professor Wentao Huang (Jiangnan University, China). They gave wonderful keynote speeches and shared their latest research results and insights through their research and experimental experiences and professional knowledge in the fields of power systems and energy technologies. This conference provided a high-level academic exchange platform for participants, promoted the exchange and collision of new ideas and technologies, and promoted the innovation and development of power systems and energy technologies as well as their affiliated industries and disciplines. In this volume, we collected the excellent contributions that have also been presented at the conference through oral or poster presentations, covering topics on Intelligent Protection and Substation Integrated Automation, Power System Real-Time Simulation System, Smart Grid, Renewable Energy, Energy Storage Technology, Energy Efficiency, Energy Conversion and Application, among others. Finally, we would like to thank all the keynote speakers, authors, reviewers, and everyone who contributed to the conference. We owe gratitude to all the committee members for providing necessary help and support throughout the conference. Special acknowledgements to the IOP Press-Journal of Physics: Conference Series for its help in making this volume published. The Committee of ICPSET 2024 List of Committee Member is available in this Pdf.

Nepal-India Relations: Exploring the Dichotomy between 'Big Brother' and 'Brotherhood'

The historical relationship between Nepal and India is deeply rooted in their geographic proximity and shared elements such as religion, culture, language, and socio-economic interests. While Nepal borders both China and India, its closeness with India is accentuated by these shared attributes and mutual opportunities. The two countries share an open border of around 1,780 kilometers along Nepal's eastern, western, and southern regions. Despite India's larger size, population, and more advanced economic development, Nepal maintains its sovereignty and equal status as an independent nation. However, India's role is often perceived as that of a "big brother" to Nepal, reflecting the disparity in size and influence. Nonetheless, all sovereign nations, regardless of their geographic or economic differences, are regarded as equals in status. In an era defined by globalization, scientific advancements, and technological progress, Nepal aspires to build a strong relationship with India based on mutual friendship and economic cooperation, particularly through foreign investment and the exchange of technology. While occasional tensions arise, usually from the Indian side, they have not escalated into major conflicts and are unlikely to do so. It is widely understood that while friendships may fluctuate, the bond between neighbors remains constant. This article examines the various aspects and dynamics of Nepal-India relations within this context.

Agricultural trade liberalization, governance quality, and technical efficiency in the agricultural sector of Southeast Asia

International trade has been regarded as an essential factor in enhancing a country's productivity and efficiency. Nevertheless, developing countries squander money and resources as a result of their deficient institutional quality, impeding their ability to profit from specialization and trade. Therefore, this study intends to investigate the impact of agricultural trade liberalization and governance quality on technical efficiency in Southeast Asia's agricultural sector using balanced panel data spanning from 2002 to 2021. The research utilizes translog stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) with a single-stage maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) to simultaneously calculate the time-varying technical efficiency scores and explore the core factors influencing agricultural inefficiency. The findings reveal that the average output-oriented technical efficiency for ASEAN-8 countries was 94 %. This suggests that there is significant potential to enhance technical efficiency in agricultural production by up to 6 % by addressing the adverse impacts of technical inefficiency. The research findings further point out that Malaysia is the most technically efficient country, having a technical efficiency score of 99.82 %, followed by Vietnam (99.75 %), Thailand (99.70 %), Lao PDR (98.90 %), Myanmar (95.42 %), Indonesia (91.64 %), the Philippines (90.65 %), and Cambodia (76.11 %). The results of disaggregated agricultural trade liberalization demonstrate a significant reduction in agricultural inefficiency in Southeast Asia through agricultural exports and imports. The findings also emphasize that improvements in the rule of law positively contribute to agricultural efficiency, whereas enhancements in terms of voice and accountability and regulatory quality appear to reduce it. Based on these findings, the government should consider enlarging open and liberalized trade policies in order to facilitate the exchange of technology and knowledge within the agriculture sector. Additionally, the government should involve farmers, agricultural cooperatives, local communities, and other relevant stakeholders in the decision-making process to ensure that policies address the specific needs and constraints faced by the sector.

ODP-DASHBOARD: Enhancing Marine Species Conservation in the South Atlantic through Linked Open Data Integration

This paper presents the development of a Cloud-based dashboard called ODP-DASHBOARD (Ocean Data Platform), to manage information from the Marine Biodiversity domains and Oceanography. In this context, the Linked Open Data (LOD) paradigm has emerged as a set of best practices for connecting, sharing and exposing data and knowledge. A central part of this paradigm are ontologies, which allow the definition of shared vocabularies and conceptual models that help integrate this information. These considerations provide a strong motivation to formulate a system that takes into account geospatial characteristics that can provide answers to questions such as the following: (i) How can we define spatial regions for our studies? (ii) How are species distributed in a given region? (iii) Given a particular georeference, what geographic region does it belong to? (iv) How to relate species occurrences to environmental variables within a specific region?. This system is composedof (i) Architecture; (ii) Conceptual model and (iii) Linked data set for exploitation through a SPARQL endpoint. The evaluation was carried out from two approaches, the first of which consists of validating the dashboard using real data extracted from Marine Biodiversity and Oceanography repositories and then validating the proposed conceptual model using competency questions. The second approach has to do with validation through case studies defined together with researchers from the Scientific and Technological Center (CENPAT-CONICET).

Study on the Emission Reduction Effect of China's OFDI in Countries along the Belt and Road

With extreme weather events occurring more frequently around the world, urgent action on climate change is becoming increasingly urgent. In the countries along the "Belt and Road", many adopt extensive development methods and face increasing pressure on carbon emissions. This paper explores the impact of China's outward direct investment (OFDI) on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from 108 countries along the route that have joined China's Belt and Road Initiative, reported by Xinhua News Agency, from 2005 to 2020. The findings show that China's OFDI helps reduce carbon emissions in host countries, strongly refuting the claim that China's OFDI poses an environmental threat. At the same time, OFDI has promoted the spread of environmental protection technology and industrial upgrading in countries along the route, especially in developing countries, which may bring the phenomenon of "pollution halo". Based on the results of the study, it is suggested that China and countries along the "Belt and Road" should carry out international environmental technology exchanges and cooperation, and strengthen green and low-carbon investment in these countries. These cooperation measures will help push countries along the Belt and road towards a more sustainable development path and jointly address the challenge of global climate change.

Bridging Gaps in STEM Education: The Case for Dedicated Learning Centres in South African Townships and Rural Areas

This article explores the critical need for improved Mathematics, Science, Engineering and Technology (STEM) education in South African townships and rural areas, where persistent challenges in teaching methods and resource accessibility have hindered the development of these crucial subjects. The perception of Mathematics and Science as complex subjects, coupled with societal pressures to prioritise less ‘challenging’ subjects, has resulted in a quantity-over-quality approach to education. This article argues for establishing dedicated Mathematics, Science, Engineering, and technology centres in these underserved regions, drawing upon global research findings that underscore the importance of continuous improvement in STEM subjects for individual and national advancement. The proposed centres aim to address educational disparities by providing innovative teaching methods, resource access, and mentorship programs. These proposed centres intend to rectify educational disparities by offering innovative teaching methods, improved resource access, and mentorship programs. Through examining successful case studies and potential challenges, this article calls for a comprehensive approach to reshape the STEM education landscape in South African townships and rural areas, contributing to a more equitable and robust educational system.

Uncovering the impact on environmental challenges through the predictors of m-tourism apps adoption: SEM-NCA approaches

This study investigates the factors influencing the adoption of m-tourism apps in Bangladesh and their impact on being free from environmental challenges. Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Necessity Condition Analysis (NCA), the research explores how various predictors affect the Intention to Adopt Tourism Apps (IATA) and, subsequently, the outcome of being free from environmental challenges (FEC). SEM results reveal that Perceived Usefulness (PU), Cultural Exchange of Technology (CET), Social Amusement and Entertainment (SAE), and Tourists' Lifestyles (TL) significantly enhance IATA, with IATA having a strong positive impact on FEC. Conversely, Attitudes Towards Technology (ATT) and Government Supportive Roles (GSR) show limited influence on adoption. NCA identifies CET, IATA, SAE, and TL as critical predictors with medium to large effect sizes, particularly at higher thresholds, indicating their role as major bottlenecks. Government Supportive Roles and Tourist Technology Readiness are less influential. These findings offer valuable insights for developers and policymakers to focus on enhancing the perceived value, cultural exchange, and lifestyle compatibility of m-tourism apps to improve adoption rates and effectively address environmental challenges.

More digitalization does not always imply more technology transfer: an analysis within the horizon Europe strategy

AbstractDigitalization plays a pivotal role in today’s economies, facilitating global collaboration by overcoming geographical barriers and enabling technology exchange. Conventional wisdom holds that digitalization directly impacts technology transfer (TT). However, this relationship is not always straightforward. This research challenges this assumption by arguing that countries with higher levels of digitalization may be less effective in TT activities than countries with intermediate digital performance. Drawing on data from Horizon Europe and the Digital Economy and Society Index, the study conducts a two-stage analysis (first a network analysis, followed by a clustering and ANOVA) covering 411 collaborative projects in 31 countries, involving 2,890 participating organizations. Our findings confirm that countries with intermediate levels of digitalization emerge as leaders within the TT network. Furthermore, the study sheds light on specific digitalization indicators (connectivity, human capital, and the integration of digital technology) that can improve the position of European countries within the network.

How green governance empowers high-quality development: An EKC framework-based analysis of ESG and green total factor productivity.

High-quality development represents a fundamental shift in China's economy from scale and speed to quality and efficiency. In this transition, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices are not only closely integrated with China's development strategy but have also become a core standard for measuring development quality. Nevertheless, research on how ESG practices specifically promote high-quality development in Chinese enterprises remains limited. Based on the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) theory framework, this study uses data from the Huazheng ESG Index from 2009 to 2022 and employs fixed effect models, mediation effect models, and heterogeneity analysis to examine the specific impact of China's ESG practices on corporate high-quality development from multiple dimensions. The results show that there is a "U-shaped" relationship between the ESG practices of Chinese listed companies and green total factor productivity (GTFP). Initially, improving ESG practices may temporarily suppress GTFP, but as ESG levels further improve, they exhibit a significant positive impact on GTFP. Corporations significantly boost productivity by alleviating financing constraints and promoting green technological innovation, although the direct impact on technological advancement remains relatively limited. In China's western regions and industries such as manufacturing, electricity, heat, gas, and water production and supply, wholesale and retail, and information transmission, software, and information technology services, the positive effects of ESG on GTFP are particularly evident. Based on these findings, it is recommended that governments and financial institutions collaborate to promote green credit policies and increase support for the research and development of green technologies. Additionally, environmental education and resource use optimization should be strengthened, especially in industries such as agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry, and fisheries, and the exchange of ESG technologies and experiences between industries should be encouraged.

EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN GHANA: UNDERSTANDING THE CENTRALITY OF TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION IN THE CLASSROOM AND BEYOND

The study aimed to conduct a systematic review of literature on the nature of technology integration in education. The researchers found five major areas in the literature that appeared to give policymakers guidance on how to incorporate technology into the teaching and learning process. These areas were understanding and using new technologies, funding of technologies in education, teacher preparedness in ICT integration, safeguarding ICT and perceived use in school as well as the impact of stakeholders in ICT integration. The study used the narrative review and documentary analysis approach in order to determine the essential factors of a successful technology integration strategy, examine the difficulties educators and learners have while utilising ICT in the classroom and offer recommendations on how to use technology to enhance learning outcomes. The study considered Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by Davis (1989) and the Diffusion of Innovations by Rogers (2003) as the theoretical framework. The study recommends that Ghanaian educational institutions must embrace and successfully integrate technology in the classroom and in larger educational contexts, given the growing reliance of society on digital tools resources. Again, infrastructure in technology such as computers and tablets, consistent internet connectivity, and backup power sources in places with erratic electricity, need to be given a priority by the government and educational stakeholders. Other priority actions required are prioritising community technology centres, giving low-income students access to subsidised internet connection, and supplying subsidised gadgets.

The impact of technological cooperation on Russian-Chinese relations: prospects and challenges

The study of technological cooperation between Russia and China is an in-depth analysis of the interrelationships that have developed between the two countries in the field of science and technology. The focus is on ongoing projects and initiatives, such as joint research, which play a key role in the development of both States. The influence of the international situation on these relations is considered as global changes and economic sanctions against Russia can affect the dynamics of cooperation with China. The study also analyzes the challenges that may arise in the development of these ties, including issues of intellectual property and competitiveness in the international arena. An important place is occupied by studying the role of technological exchange in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries, as well as its possible geopolitical consequences, such as strengthening the positions of both countries on the world stage, reducing dependence on Western technologies and influencing global supply chains. The study highlights the importance of technology cooperation as a tool to achieve a sustainable and secure future for Russia and China in a changing world order. The article uses methods of qualitative analysis based on data from scientific publications and reports. An important place is given to the interdisciplinary approach, which includes elements of system analysis, economic theory, international relations and political science. The methods used help to investigate the influence of technological factors on the dynamics of Russian-Chinese relations and assess their long-term prospects. Technological cooperation between Russia and China demonstrates great significant potential, despite the existing challenges. The study highlights the impact of political, economic and technological factors, as well as risks such as political instability and cyber threats. Deepening high-tech collaboration opens up new horizons for both countries, allowing knowledge sharing in strategically important sectors such as artificial intelligence and 5G. This study makes an innovative contribution, emphasizing the need to integrate technology and policy solutions. Technological cooperation also contributes to strengthening geopolitical cooperation in the face of sanctions pressure and instability. To achieve long-term success, it is important to develop stable cooperation mechanisms, minimize risks and ensure stability based on trust and joint strategies.

Preface

The 7th International Conference on Computer Network, Electronic and Automation (ICCNEA 2024) was held in Xi’an Technological University from Sep. 20 to 22, 2024. The conference took place in the beautiful city of Xi’an, China, a city with a history of three thousand years. The conference aims to provide a high-level international forum for engineers and scholars to present their new advances and research results. The main topics of ICCNEA 2024 were: Networks and Computing, Computer Software and Theory, Control and Automation, Electronic Technology. In addition, the conference also invited six technical experts to give keynote speech. A total of 218 manuscripts were submitted to the conference. Three rounds of review were adopted, the first round was subject scope, scientific, technical and innovative review, and 132 articles were left after this round of review; the second round was double-expert blind review to strive for the originality, scientific and applied value of the articles, and 86 manuscripts were left in the second round. Finally, the third round was the process committee’s collective decision to accept the final articles. Finally, 79 excellent articles were selected. Beside the main venue, four sub-venues were set up to conduct technical exchanges in the four areas of manuscript solicitation. Each author presented their research hotspot. The conference was supported by State and Provincial Joint Engineering Lab. of Advanced Network, Monitoring and Control, China, Xi’an Technological University, China, Missouri Western State University, USA, Belarusian State University of Transport, Republic of Belarus, James Cook University, Australia, Chang’an University, Xi’an, China, Shaanxi Science and Technology Exchange Center, Xi’an, China, Base of Information of Vehicle-Infrastructure Sensing and ITS, China, Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology, Xi’an China. The organizers would like to express their gratitude and thank all the participants for their valuable contribution to the conference. This year’s conference is successfully over and we are looking forward to the next conference! List of Scientific committee and Editors are available in this Pdf.

Ambiente virtual de aprendizaje en la capacitación docente en investigación científica

The objective of this research was to evaluate the Scientific Research Project Design Workshop (TDPIC), aimed at the teaching staff of the Tecnológico Nacional de México (TECNM), and focused on the Research Design Canvas model for the design of research projects. This case study is intrinsic, with a quantitative methodology of descriptive and explanatory scope. The workshop was conducted with an instructional design following the ADDIE model in a virtual learning environment (VLE), and considered a sample of 17 teachers who attended the workshop, belonging to five TECNM technology centres. At the end of the workshop, a survey was applied to the participants in order to measure their satisfaction with the digital resources used, the achievement of significant learning and the understanding of the method explained; this evaluation was positive, as the teachers indicated a high degree of satisfaction in the different dimensions of the workshop. It is concluded that the TDPIC was relevant and favoured the training process of the participating teachers.

Socio-economic Development and Carbon Productivity: A Panel Data Analysis of the World’s Largest Carbon-Emitting Countries

AbstractAs global concerns about climate change intensify, assessing the environmental efficiency of production processes through carbon productivity has become increasingly important. This study examines the impact of socio-economic development on carbon productivity in the top 18 CO2-emitting countries, which contribute approximately 82% of global CO2 emissions, over the period 1990–2019. Using a class of econometric tests to address heterogeneity and cross-sectional dependence, we employ the Cross-Sectionally Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) model for final estimation, ensuring robustness with Common Correlated Effects Mean Group (CCEMG) and Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimations. The empirical findings reveal that GDP per capita, Trade, and FDI increase carbon productivity while energy consumption and urbanization curtail carbon productivity. The country-specific effects indicated that 83% of the sample countries exhibit positive relationships between socio-economic development and carbon productivity, suggesting that these nations can serve as models for effective low-carbon policies. Moreover, the results demonstrate bi-directional relationships for GDP per capita, FDI, and energy use with carbon productivity and uni-causal relationship for trade and urbanization. The study highlights the need for implementing stricter regulations to improve energy efficiency and promote the adoption of renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro, and nuclear power. Additionally, countries should incentivize green technology investments through tax breaks and subsidies, enhance international trade agreements that support the exchange of clean technologies, and develop sustainable urban planning initiatives to mitigate the negative impact of urbanization on carbon productivity.

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF SMART ECONOMY DEVELOPMENT IN SELECTED COUNTRIES OF SOUTHEAST ASIA

Research subject. The development of the global economy indicates the formation of a new trend in the formation of the smart economy, which currently covers both developed and developing countries. According to the analysis, developed countries are leaders in economic development precisely because of the development of technologies that are the basis for the formation of the smart economy and the smart intellectualisation of economic activity. The smart economy in Asia is actively developing due to the intensive introduction of the latest technologies, innovative management approaches, and increased resource efficiency. Asian countries such as China, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and India are leaders in the development of the smart economy. At the same time, Asian countries have been demonstrating one of the highest rates of economic development since the beginning of the XXI century, which is primarily due to the active technologisation of production and the spread of communication technologies in all areas of economic activity. Several technology centres are emerging in Asia, concentrating technology companies and creating a favourable environment for the development of the smart economy. Methodology. The article conducts a comparative analysis of the factors contributing to the development of the smart economy in individual Asian countries, identifies the most influential factors and the degree of their impact on each country. The purpose of this study is to identify the factors influencing the development of the smart economy and compare their impact in the economies of China, India and Singapore. To achieve this goal, the following research objectives are envisaged: to identify factors that have a significant impact on the development of the smart economy in different countries; to assess the impact of individual factors on the development of the smart economy in China, India and Singapore; to compare the impact of individual factors of the smart economy on the economies of these countries; and to assess the models of smart economy development in China, India and Singapore. Conclusion. The smart economy in Asia is characterised by unique features that reflect the cultural, technological and economic conditions of the region. The key features of the Asian smart economy include a high level of digitisation and technological integration, active development of smart cities, financial technologies (FinTech), a focus on automation and robotics, innovation hubs and support for start-ups, environmental sustainability and green energy, and the digitalisation of governance and public services. Asian countries are also distinguished by the integration of smart technologies into the everyday life of citizens and the support of innovation ecosystems at the state level.

Spatial-temporal evolution of digital skills in the EU countries

Digital skills, integral to the functioning of the digital economy and information society, show temporal and spatial variations measured by various indicators. In this article, we assess the spatial and temporal evolution of digital skills under the influence of key factors and domains in the EU countries from 2015 to 2021. Applying spatial autocorrelation analysis, robust geographical heterogeneity and consistent spatial patterns in digital skills are outlined, resulting in two ‘high–high’ and ‘high–low’ clusters in the North and Center, and a ‘low–low’ cluster in the South. Using feature importance selection, key indicators within aggregate domains driving digital skills policy are identified. Spatial lag regression analysis highlights the significance of all domains, revealing spatial and spillover effects on digital skills, with the primary influence observed in the social sphere, technology and innovations, and demography domains. Although the ICT infrastructure domain is statistically more significant in our spatial model along with the economy and technology and innovations, its spillover effects appear relatively modest, indicating a corresponding degree of within-country localization. This study contributes to the understanding of the evolution of digital skills by revealing both spatial relationships and temporal dynamics and strengthening spatial digital policy measures in the EU. The spatial coherence of digital policies, the spatial network of technological and innovation centers in both ‘high–low’ clusters and cross-border locations, and improving the social, demographic, and economic profiles of citizens are critical among other measures to improve digital skills in EU countries.

Leading innovation in laboratory medicine and promoting international exchange of medical technology

Leading innovation in laboratory medicine and promoting international exchange of medical technology

Влияние регуляторов роста нового поколения на урожайность озимой пшеницы

In the formation of grain crops, an important place is given not only to the problem of nutrition, but also to the ability to manage the processes of growth and development in order to fully realize the vital potential of plants. Therefore, the introduction of new progressive technologies with the use of growth regulators is highly relevant, as it will allow to obtain stable yields of grain crops of good quality even under adverse weather conditions. The purpose of the research was to identify the effectiveness of using new generation growth regulators in the cultivation of winter wheat with different seeding rates, as one of the elements of agricultural technology in the conditions of the Central region of the Non-Chernozem zone of the Russian Federation. The research was carried out in 2021-2024 at the experimental field of the laboratory of technology for the cultivation of winter cereals and fertilizer application systems of the Technological Center for Agriculture of the Nemchinovka Agricultural Center (Moscow region, Marushkinskoye settlement of Moscow, Sokolovo village). The maximum photosynthetic potential was set in the variant with the combined use of Moddus with Anti-leaching at a seeding rate of 550 pcs/m2 and was equal to 2784 thousand m2 day/ha, that is, 538 thousand m2 day/ha more than the minimum value, in the control variant without the use of growth regulators with a seeding rate of 500 pcs/m2. The maximum amount of dry biomass was set on the variant with the combined use of a Moddus with an Anti-leaching agent at a seeding rate of 550 pcs/m2 and was 10.35 t/ha, that is, 2.79 t/ha more than the minimum value. The maximum net photosynthesis productivity was set for the Moddus variant with a seeding rate of 550 pcs/m2 and was equal to 1.56 g/m2 per day. The maximum economic yield of winter wheat on average for 2022-2024 was set on the option of joint application of Moddus with Anti-leaching at a seeding rate of 550 pcs/m2 and was equal to 7.47 t/ha, that is, 1.36 t/ha more than the minimum value.

Performance of plant growth regulators in soybean cultivation under differente aplication methods

The utilization of biostimulants has emerged as a promising approach in agriculture, aiming to augment the physiological processes associated with germination and growth across diverse plant species, thereby leading to substantial and sustainable enhancements in agricultural productivity. Grounded in scientific insights, this study endeavored to juxtapose the efficacy of a biostimulant compound against conventional market-available products. The application methodologies encompassed seed treatment and foliar spraying at the V2 growth stage, with a primary focus on productivity augmentation. The investigation transpired at the Agricultural Technological Center of Paraguay (CETAPAR) in Colônia Iguazu, Paraguay, utilizing a randomized complete block design (RCBD) featuring 16 treatments replicated four times. Dosages were administered in adherence to label recommendations. Productivity data underwent rigorous statistical analyses, including the F-test and Dunnett's test, with a significance level set at 10%. Remarkably, foliar applications at the V2 phenological stage and seed treatments outperformed other modalities, yielding notable outputs of 4,431 kg.ha-1 and 4,419 kg.ha-1, respectively. Noteworthy is the observation that the tested biostimulant formulation exhibited equivalent or superior potential when juxtaposed with commercial counterparts. The findings underscore the viability of integrating biostimulants as a compelling strategy to optimize agricultural productivity, thereby furnishing farmers with an efficacious and sustainable alternative.

Sourcing renewable energy components: building resilient supply chains, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, and enhancing energy security

The transition to renewable energy is essential for mitigating climate change and ensuring long-term energy security. As global demand for renewable energy technologies grows, establishing resilient supply chains becomes crucial. This paper examines strategies to build robust supply chains, reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, and enhance energy security. A major challenge in renewable energy is the dependence on a limited number of international suppliers, which risks supply disruptions due to geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, or natural disasters. Diversifying suppliers can mitigate these risks by encouraging alternative suppliers and fostering competition (Smith, 2020). Local manufacturing is another critical strategy, promoting supply chain resilience, economic growth, and job creation. Countries like the United States and Germany have incentivized local manufacturing of solar panels and wind turbine components (Jones, 2021), ensuring a steady supply of parts and aligning with broader industrial policies. Maintaining strategic reserves of critical materials, such as rare earth elements and lithium, is essential for buffering against supply disruptions and price volatility, ensuring continuous production of renewable energy technologies (Brown, 2019). Strategic planning and investment in reserves are vital for a comprehensive energy security strategy. Technological innovation enhances supply chain resilience. Advances in materials science, manufacturing processes, and recycling technologies can reduce dependence on scarce materials and improve renewable energy system efficiency. Developing alternative materials for battery storage, for example, can reduce reliance on lithium and cobalt sourced from unstable regions (White, 2022). Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are crucial for advancing the renewable energy sector. By leveraging both sectors' strengths, PPPs can accelerate technology deployment, improve infrastructure, and foster innovation. Successful examples include government-private collaborations on offshore wind farms and smart grid technologies (Green & Associates, 2021). Favorable trade policies facilitate the global exchange of renewable energy technologies and components. Reducing tariffs, streamlining customs, and fostering international cooperation can enhance supply chain efficiency and reliability (Lee, 2020). This study advocates for trade agreements tailored to the renewable energy sector's needs. Integrated energy systems and smart grid technologies optimize renewable energy use and distribution. Advanced monitoring and control systems improve grid stability, reduce energy waste, and enhance renewable source integration (Adams, 2019). Investment in smart grid infrastructure is crucial for a resilient energy strategy. Robust policy frameworks are necessary to support these initiatives. Governments must enact policies providing clear guidance, incentives, and support for resilient renewable energy supply chains, including ambitious renewable energy targets, financial incentives for R&D, and regulatory stability (Martinez, 2021).