Technological Shifts Research Articles

Agile transformation in the energy sector: empowering autonomous teams

Purpose This study aims to explore how to structure an energy organization to be more agile in the context of digitalization and find the common success factors and challenges the organizations face to transform. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative multiple-case study of an energy company and an online market company, both from the Nordic countries, was conducted in 2023. Data were collected through in-depth individual interviews with 16 participants. Findings This research provides valuable insights into the challenges and critical success factors crucial for a successful digital transformation. The study illuminates the interplay between technological advancements and organizational shifts, the adoption of agile methodologies, the importance of inclusive leadership and the integration of autonomous teams in realizing digital transformation goals. The research emphasizes the profound impact of these factors on the transformational journey within organizations. In particular, the adoption of agile methodologies takes on heightened significance in the swiftly evolving business landscape of today, calling for a transition from project-centric approaches to more adaptive and sustainable product-centric models. Originality/value The study contributes to the practice and enhanced understanding of organizing business and technology teams in energy companies to achieve fast flow. The analysis and discussion of various empirical findings shed light on the success factors and challenges of digital transformation – issues that many organizations are currently or will likely soon be grappling with. The impact of different organizational structures on agility in an organization has yet to be thoroughly studied.

Constructing knowledge: the role of AI in medical learning.

The integration of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT into medical education presents potential benefits and challenges. These technologies, aligned with constructivist learning theories, could potentially enhance critical thinking and problem-solving through inquiry-based learning environments. However, the actual impact on educational outcomes and the effectiveness of these tools in fostering learning require further empirical study. This technological shift necessitates a reevaluation of curriculum design and the development of new assessment methodologies to measure its effects accurately. Additionally, the use of LLMs introduces significant ethical concerns, particularly in addressing inherent AI biases to ensure equitable educational access. LLMs may also help reduce global disparities in medical education by providing broader access to contemporary medical knowledge and practices, though their deployment must be managed carefully to truly support the training of competent, ethical medical professionals.

Advancements in intelligent driving assistance: A machine learning approach to identify real-time driving strategies using environmental, eye movement, control-related, and kinetic-related data

Human-vehicle collaboration (HVC) is gaining focus as intelligent vehicle technology shifts driving responsibilities from humans to automation. Effective HVC hinges on mutual understanding between parties. Driving strategies address specific driving requirements and guide maneuver decisions, offering a gateway to uncovering a driver’s immediate needs. The present study introduces the framework of adaptive driving (FAD), which uses machine learning algorithms to incorporate critical features for identifying four common driving strategies, including competitive driving, skill-based behavior, defensive driving, and urgent reactions. A total of 52 participants engaged in simulated driving sessions, with these sessions yielding 983 driving events that were used for model training. Discriminative models considering driving environment, eye movement, or combined features can satisfactorily classify four driving strategies, while control-related and kinetic-related data offer minor contributions. Environmental data significantly aids in identifying skill-based and competitive strategies, characterized by lower risk dynamics and longer Time-to-Collision (TTC), with forward targets often triggering competitive driving. For risk mitigation strategies, both environment and eye movement data are crucial. Scenarios with higher risk dynamics prompt defensive driving, while shorter TTC indicates urgent reactions. Defensive driving is revealed by saccade patterns and less variation in pupil activities, whereas urgent reactions show pronounced pupil dilation and reduced saccade activity, indicating challenges in environmental observation during emergencies.

Is the Effect of Trust on Risk Perceptions a Matter of Knowledge, Control, and Time? An Extension and Direct-Replication Attempt of Siegrist and Cvetkovich (2000)

The complexity of societal risks such as pandemics, artificial intelligence, and climate change may lead laypeople to rely on experts and authorities when evaluating these threats. While Siegrist and Cvetkovich showed that competence-based trust in authorities correlates with perceived societal risks and benefits only when people feel unknowledgeable, recent research has yielded mixed support for this foundational work. To address this discrepancy, we conducted a direct-replication study (preregistered; 1,070 participants, 33 risks, 35,310 observations). The results contradict the original findings. However, additional non-preregistered analyses indicate an alternative perspective aligning with compensatory control theory and the description-experience framework: experiences with insufficient personal control over a threat may amplify individuals’ dependency on powerful others for risk mitigation. These findings highlight the need to reevaluate how trust shapes risk perceptions. Recent societal and technological shifts might have heightened the desire for control compared to subjective knowledge in why people resort to trust.

Downscaling occupational employment data from the state to the Census tract level

The lack of detailed occupational employment data at more granular geographic levels presents significant challenges in forecasting and analyzing local and regional employment changes in the era of the new technological revolution. This study aims to develop detailed occupational employment data by downscaling state-level employment information to the Census tract level. We introduce two downscaling algorithms that leverage employment, population, and sociodemographic composition data sourced from the American Community Survey, the Current Population Survey, and the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. This approach allows us to create a tract-level employment dataset covering 808 occupations. Such data are crucial for examining the effects of expected technological and demographic shifts on employment at this scale, which is critical for understanding tax base implications and job mobility opportunities. We demonstrate the value of these datasets by examining employment projections for two occupations anticipated to decline due to technological advancements in the near future.

Gravity refrigeration cycle: An efficient approach for refrigeration in mountainous regions

Traditional refrigeration methods often rely on energy-intensive, high operational costs and result in considerable negative environmental impacts. This paper introduces a novel and revolutionary approach to refrigeration technology through the implementation of the Gravity Refrigeration Cycle (GRC). GRC utilizes vertical pipelines in high elevation mountains instead of compressors to increase the pressure of refrigeration gases. Gas added to the top of the vertical pipeline is pulled down by gravity, increasing the pressure and density of the gas along the vertical pipeline and liquefying it at the bottom of the pipeline. The liquid is then transported back to the top of the mountain, where cooling services are provided, and the cycle starts again. The estimated coefficient of performance for a GRC system with 28 and −7 °C hot and cold sinks is 4.19, which is 1.84 times higher than conventional, mechanical refrigeration systems and a cost of 274 USD/kWt, 2.2 times higher than conventional systems. Gravity Refrigeration Cycle represents a paradigm shift in refrigeration technology in mountainous regions, particularly for processes with high demand for cooling, such as hydrogen liquefaction. As the world seeks greener and more economical alternatives, GRC could be a promising advancement in refrigeration.

Self-directed learning among general practitioners in the German-speaking part of Switzerland: a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews.

This research aimed to investigate the self-directed learning (SDL) habits of Swiss general practitioners from the German-speaking part of Switzerland, understanding how they acquire new knowledge, exploring the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on these habits and identifying optimisation strategies for their future self-directed learning. We employed a qualitative study design, conducting semi-structured interviews with 16 general practitioners from 30 May 2022 to 06 July 2022. Thematic analysis based on a mixed deductive/inductive approach was used to gain insight into the learning activities and self-directed learning practices of the practitioners. The interviewed general practitioners demonstrated a versatile approach to self-directed learning, where peer communication emerged as the most predominant learning method. It is noteworthy that the younger generation in particular showed a strong inclination for peer learning and is well prepared for the integration of advanced digital solutions for peer communication. Furthermore, a significant shift was observed in media-based self-directed learning, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital platforms and repositories for practical learning were mentioned as educational mainstays by many interviewees, reflecting a profound technological shift observed over the past 25 years and especially since the pandemic. The primary motivation for pursuing new knowledge remains patient care, although personal development and staying up-to-date with medical and technological advancements are also key motivators. Although the pandemic has undeniably accelerated the transition towards digital learning, it has also brought with it challenges such as information overload and technical difficulties. There was an evident decline in formal learning venues and physical presence during the pandemic, yet the reported value of in-person interactions remains high. Suggestions for optimising self-directed learning included enhancing digital offerings, fostering stronger peer networks and integrating more practical content. The COVID-19 pandemic has catalysed a transformation in the self-directed learning practices of general practitioners in the German-speaking part of Switzerland, underlining the importance of a balanced approach between digital and traditional learning methods. As the digital realm of self-directed learning grows, it is essential to address existing challenges and capitalise on potential advantages. Both individual networking efforts like general practitioner quality circles and initiatives from official authorities like informal self-test opportunities can play pivotal roles in refining self-directed learning practices. The findings from this study offer valuable insights for enhancing learning resources and environments that align with general practitioners' needs and preferences. Future research should investigate the ongoing impact of advanced digital technologies on self-directed learning to understand the evolving landscape in a post-pandemic world.

Analysis of Cooling Technologies in the Data Center Sector on the Basis of Patent Applications

The cooling of server components has been developed over the past few years in order to meet increasing cooling requirements. The growth in performance and power density increases the cooling demand. To gain a better understanding of the evolution and possible future technology developments in the field of data center cooling, a patent analysis method was used with a focus on the server and computer room levels. After the patent extraction from the European patent database for the period 2000–2023, the search results were classified and analyzed. Most of the patents deal with air or liquid cooling. Since 2015, a technological shift from air to liquid cooling can be identified on the level of patent activities. In conclusion, from the patent analysis, it can be derived that liquid cooling will continue to gain in importance in the future and could also be combined with other approaches in the form of hybrid cooling. However, air cooling may still be relevant, even if the main cooling load is handled by liquid-based approaches. At the same time, the optimization potential for air cooling seems to have been largely exploited in comparison to liquid cooling, as can be seen from the falling number of the patent applications.

Design and Performance Analysis of Compact Printed Ridge Gap Waveguide Phase Shifters for Millimeter-Wave Systems.

This paper introduces compact Printed Ridge Gap Waveguide (PRGW) phase shifters tailored for millimeter-wave applications, with a focus on achieving wide operating bandwidth, and improved matching and phase balance compared to single-layer technology. This study proposes a unique approach to achieve the required phase shift in PRGW technology, which has not been previously explored. This study also introduces a novel analytical approach to calculate the cutoff frequency and propagation constant of the PRGW structure, a method not previously addressed. Furthermore, the utilization of multi-layer PRGW technology enables the realization of multi-layer beamforming networks without crossing, thereby supporting wideband operation in a compact size. The proposed design procedure enables the realization of various phase shift values ranging from 0∘ to 135∘ over a broad frequency bandwidth centered at 30 GHz. A 45-degree phase shifter is fabricated and tested, demonstrating a 10 GHz bandwidth (approximately 33% fractional bandwidth) from 25 GHz to 35 GHz. Throughout the operating bandwidth, the phase balance remains within 45 ± 5∘, with a deep matching level of -20 dB. The proposed phase shifter exhibits desirable characteristics, such as compactness, low loss, and low dispersion, making it a suitable choice for millimeter-wave applications, including beyond 5G (B5G) and 6G wireless communications.

Generative Early Architectural Visualizations: Incorporating Architect's Style-trained Models

Abstract This study introduces a novel approach to architectural visualization using generative artificial intelligence (AI), particularly emphasizing text-to-image (txt2img) technology, to remarkably improve the visualization process right from the initial design phase within the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. By creating >10,000 images incorporating an architect's personal style and characteristics into a residential house model, the effectiveness of base AI models. Furthermore, various architectural styles were integrated to enhance the visualization process. This method involved additional training for styles with low similarity rates, which required extensive data preparation and their integration into the base AI model. Demonstrated to be effective across multiple scenarios, this technique markedly enhances the efficiency and speed of production of architectural visualization images. Highlighting the vast potential of AI in design visualization, our study emphasizes the technology's shift toward facilitating more user-centered and personalized design applications.

Unpacking the multi-dimensional nature of teacher competencies: a systematic review

ABSTRACT Teachers’ competencies play a pivotal role in delivering high-quality education, yet the existing literature in this domain appears fragmented, lacking a comprehensive understanding. In response to this gap, our study conducted a systematic review of literature spanning the last three decades. The objective was twofold: to scrutinize the current research landscape and emerging trends related to teachers’ competencies, and to conceptualize and theorize the complexity of these competencies. Our findings underscore the significant evolution of teacher competencies over time, driven by dynamic shifts in society, technology, and culture. Notably, we introduced innovative concepts such as Holistic Cognitive Competencies, Dynamic Instrumental Competencies, and Essential Affective Competencies to contribute to the conceptual framework. By elucidating the essential components for enhancing the teacher training system, our research not only provides valuable insights for practitioners and academics, but also identifies pertinent research gaps, challenges, and potential avenues for future exploration.

Заходи з енергозбереження в метрополітені (на прикладі біметалевих контактних рейок)

The purpose of this study is to develop methods and tools for long-term forecasting of electricity consumption based on an improved integrated method for predicting electricity demand, taking into account the peculiarities of electric use of the Kyiv Metro and its impact on the city's electricity consumption. The scientific novelty of the results obtained is the consideration of technological potential with measures for electric saving, pouring into Level II and Level III in the energy consumption model, which takes into account both the overall potential of electric saving (from structural and technological shifts) in the country as a whole, and the features at the regional level (the city of Kyiv) in the types of economic activity in the provision of transport services (Metro). During the work, material was collected on measures for electricity saving in the metro and forecasts for the development of this type of service provision (passenger transportation). To achieve sufficient energy consumption, it is important to introduce energy-efficient technologies that will reduce electricity costs without losing productivity and passenger service quality. Bimetallic contact rails are more efficient in terms of transmitting electric current and reducing energy losses. This innovation opens up new opportunities for the sustainable development of urban transport and contributes to the creation of more efficient and convenient conditions for city residents. Measures are provided to protect the structures and equipment of the section that is being designed and built, the metro line from electric corrosion. Calculation of electricity saving potentials at the regional level (Kyiv) made it possible to more accurately take into account the volume of implementation of energy saving measures, since such programs are developed at the regional level. These estimates are used to determine the technological potential of energy saving. The technological potential of electricity saving will reach the level of 600 million kWh by 2040, while maintaining the pace of economic development in Kyiv. Keywords: Metro, electric saving, electric saving potential, forecasting, energy efficiency, electricity.

Technology of High-k/Metal-Gate Stack

Abstract The High-k/Metal-Gate Stack (HKMG) technology represents a seminal advancement in semiconductor fabrication, predicated upon the substitution of SiO2 with high-k dielectric materials, coupled with the integration of metal gate materials. This technological paradigm shift has emerged as a transformative response to the intricate challenges encountered within the semiconductor industry, a sector perpetually engaged in the relentless pursuit of diminishing the critical dimensions of semiconductor devices. Issues such as increased power leakage, enhanced parasitic capacitance, and the escalating complexity of gate insulators have impeded the sustainable downscaling of traditional silicon dioxide-based devices. These challenges have necessitated a comprehensive re-evaluation of the materials and processes involved in semiconductor manufacturing, leading to the conception and evolution of the HKMG technology. This article’s analysis of the developmental trajectory of HKMG technology reveals a progression marked by the systematic exploration of alternative high-k dielectric materials, rigorous compatibility assessments with metal gate materials, and the concurrent refinement of manufacturing processes to ensure seamless integration. After that, elucidating the impediments encountered during its evolution and expounding upon the corresponding ameliorative measures instituted. Looking ahead, ongoing research focusing on the synthesis of advanced high-k dielectric materials, and the development of novel metal gate materials with superior compatibility to further enhance device performance and functionality makes HKMG technology a huge prospect. Such advancements are paving the way for the realization of more powerful, energy-efficient, and compact electronic devices.

Effects of Technological Advancement on the Functioning of Small and Midsize Enterprises (SMEs) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Technological transformation aims to investigate small and medium-sized businesses' capacity to implement novel strategies that will boost production while endangering worker efficiency. Managers of SMEs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the province of Pakistan, made up a population sample of 273 respondents, who were compelled to do new research. The main statistical methods that are mandated are methods for linear regression. It is hypothesized that the medium-sized firm in KP's north and south areas is affected by the technological shift. The coefficient's determination (R2 = 0.101) shows that technical change accounts for 10.1% of the success observed in SME performance. When the forced p-value (0.000) matches the significance level of 0.05, it is considered statistically significant. results stated that the performance of SMEs in KP was positively and significantly impacted by technological progress.

Balancing Sustainability and Innovation the Future of Global Energy Policy

The global energy landscape is at a pivotal juncture. With increasing concerns about climate change, energy security, and economic stability, the transition to sustainable energy sources has become more critical. This transformation is driven by technological advancements, policy shifts, and changing consumer preferences. To navigate this transition successfully, it is essential to understand the current trends and future trajectories of the energy sector, including the role of renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, technological innovations, and investors' expectations. This article thoroughly explores these aspects, offering insights into the best strategies for a sustainable and resilient energy future.

Balancing Sustainability and Innovation the Future of Global Energy Policy

The global energy landscape is at a pivotal juncture. With increasing concerns about climate change, energy security, and economic stability, the transition to sustainable energy sources has become more critical. This transformation is driven by technological advancements, policy shifts, and changing consumer preferences. To navigate this transition successfully, it is essential to understand the current trends and future trajectories of the energy sector, including the role of renewable and nonrenewable energy sources, technological innovations, and investors' expectations. This article thoroughly explores these aspects, offering insights into the best strategies for a sustainable and resilient energy future.

An overview of trends in pest management and the need for a paradigm shift in technologies for the progression of entomopathogenic nematodes in managing crop health

An overview of trends in pest management and the need for a paradigm shift in technologies for the progression of entomopathogenic nematodes in managing crop health

EVOLUTION OF THE THEORY OF HUMAN CAPITAL

This scientific article is aimed at identifying trends in the formation and evolution of human capital against the background of the rapid development of technological processes. When writing the article, various tools of scientific knowledge were used, such as comparative analysis, scientific abstraction and synthesis. During the formation and transition to a new technological order, the role of man and human capital is being reviewed in economic processes. Currently, there are various variations that help to form ideas about the stages of development, the degree of influence, the essence and role of man and human capital in economic processes, while one should not forget about the retrospective (evaluative) analysis when considering the theory of human capital. Nowadays, the theory of human capital is able to answer many pressing questions of modern civil society; These questions are largely caused by shifts and changes in innovative and technological development in the process of the 5th and 6th technological order. In these realities, the issue of accumulation and subsequent growth of human capital becomes on a par with other pressing issues of national development. It is worth remembering that high-quality and effective human capital has a huge impact on the development of the state’s innovative economy. Keywords: evolution, theory, human capital, economic development, technological shifts.

Female political discourse in the Albanian parliament in democracy and communism

This study delves into the transformation of women’s political discourse in Albania amidst significant political and technological shifts in recent decades. Its objective is to systematize the understanding of women’s political discourse within the Albanian parliament, examining its evolution across various historical-political periods and the influence of modern information processes in democratic Albania. Utilizing theoretical methodologies, the research scrutinizes political discourse as a dynamic facet of political communication, with a particular focus on its gender dimensions and its impact on political engagement. The analysis spans several eras: the communist regime, the initial formation of democracy, and the current democratic consolidation phase. It employs a comparative approach to highlight distinct and common features of women’s political discourse across these periods. The study identifies contemporary challenges in female political communication within the Albanian parliament and proposes strategies for their improvement, emphasizing the need to enhance the role of women in Albania’s socio-political sphere. Key lexemes indicative of different historical and political contexts are analyzed to understand the influence of regime shifts on political discourse. The study differentiates between the concepts of political discourse and political communication, offering nuanced insights into these areas. This material reveals the intersection of political, social, and cultural changes in Albania as seen through women’s political discourse. It demonstrates how shifts in political regimes and societal norms have redefined political communication, particularly for women, highlighting their growing involvement and impact in Albania’s political arena. The conclusions provide a comprehensive view of Albania’s evolving socio-political landscape, underlining the increasing significance of women in shaping the nation’s future.

The impact of population aging on business innovation: a comprehensive overview

Population ageing is defined as the number of people aged 65 and over reaching 7 per cent of a country's total population. As our country enters the twentieth century, it is also entering an ageing society. On the one hand, population aging affects the effective supply of labour, the physical function of workers declines along with their willingness to work, and the burden of supporting the labour force in their prime years increases, which increases the operating costs of enterprises, hinders enterprise innovation, and is not conducive to technological advancement; it also pushes enterprises to increase their investment in human capital and technological innovation, enhances labour productivity, and promotes enterprise innovation. As the technological paradigm shifts, latecomer firms can win the competition, offset the negative effects of population ageing, and achieve technological innovation and economic growth as long as they are at the top of the shift.