Technology Initiative Research Articles

Financial Mechanism for Sustainable Development of the Marine Economy with Respect to Technology, Digitalization, and Low Carbonization

This study explores the impact of regional financial development on the sustainable growth of the marine economy across 14 coastal cities in Guangdong Province from 2004 to 2022. To assess this, a comprehensive index system was developed to measure marine economic sustainability, incorporating key factors such as capital investment, production efficiency, and processing and trade. The findings indicate that financial development significantly enhances the sustainable growth of the marine economy. However, the interaction between financial development, technology digitalization, and low-carbon initiatives leads to diminishing returns in terms of sustainability. Through the use of the Moran index and the spatial Durbin model, the analysis reveals a dual outcome: while financial development positively influences a city’s marine economic sustainability, it exerts negative spillover effects on neighboring cities. Previous studies have primarily focused on the relationship between financial development and the marine economy at the national or provincial level, leaving a gap in understanding these dynamics at the city level. Furthermore, the coordination between financial development and marine economic sustainability across cities within the same region remains largely unexplored. This study addresses these gaps by investigating city-level dynamics and examining intercity coordination between financial development and marine economic growth. The results offer a novel perspective for policymakers, highlighting strategies to balance regional financing for the marine economy with targeted investments in science, technology, digitalization, and low-carbon initiatives. This approach seeks to optimize resource allocation and mitigate potential substitution effects. Ultimately, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the complex interplay between financial development and the marine economy at both city and regional levels.

State-led smart city with Chinese characteristics: the case of Xiong’an New Area, China

ABSTRACT Smart cities have emerged as either a technical fix to challenges of urbanized accumulation or an adaptable governance strategy under neoliberal, entrepreneurial, and austerity politics worldwide. Utilizing Xiong'an New Area, the most ambitious experimentation in China, as an empirical case, we present a distinct smart city model under the governance framework of state entrepreneurialism. This paper examines the salient and proactive role of the state in the ongoing smartification and digitalization in Xiong’an New Area. We highlight the plural (geo)political agendas parallel to capital accumulation in this state project. Based on in-depth interviews and documentary analysis, we illustrate how the state steered experimental practices through innovating institutional settings and financing strategy, legitimizing ‘digital twin’ experimentation in urban management, and co-opting non-state actors, including technical professional organizations and domestic technology enterprises. Its success rests more on its demonstration effects nationwide than the ‘actually existing’ smart city/urbanism within the territory of Xiong’an. This ‘state-led smart city with Chinese Characteristics’ shows unique features of smart governance shaped by political economic dynamics in China, compared to typical smart city models in Western capitalist countries and Asian developmental countries. The findings further the nuanced understanding of smart initiatives and projects in different contexts and the role of the government through the perspective of entrepreneurialism.

LEVERAGING ENTERPRISE ARCHITECTURE FOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION: A STRATEGIC APPROACH TO BUSINESS AGILITY

This paper examines the critical role of Enterprise Architecture (EA) in facilitating Digital Transformation (DT) and enhancing business agility. EA serves as a comprehensive framework that aligns IT infrastructure with business processes, enabling organizations to adapt effectively to rapid technological changes and market demands. Through a detailed literature review, the paper highlights key EA frameworks, such as TOGAF and Zachman, and discusses how these frameworks support the alignment of organizational goals with technology initiatives. The analysis reveals that leveraging EA not only improves adaptability and operational efficiency but also minimizes risks associated with digital transformations. Despite the numerous benefits, challenges such as implementation costs, resistance to change, and integration complexity are acknowledged. The paper concludes by offering recommendations for businesses to optimize their EA practices for successful digital transformation and suggesting areas for future research, including the exploration of EA's impact across various industries and the role of leadership in managing digital initiatives.

Technological Progress as a Catalyst for Energy Efficiency: A Sustainable Technology Perspective

Enhancing energy efficiency through sustainable technological progress is imperative for pursuing sustainable development, particularly in developing countries where economic growth is strongly linked to higher energy consumption. In Tunisia, an open and developing economy, fossil energy consumption can be reduced without compromising economic growth by focusing on diminishing energy intensity. This study investigates the effects of technological progress on the overall energy intensity in Tunisia from 1980 to 2019, examining the role that technological advancements may play in attaining sustainable development goals. This study is based on a growth accounting model that uses time-series analysis and a cointegration estimation approach. Our empirical results suggest the presence of a long-term connection between the variables. The attainment of enhanced energy efficiency is contingent on the growth rate of technological progress, which should exceed capital and labor productivity. The results reveal that the net impact of technological advancements is estimated at -0.0163, which signifies that aggregate energy intensity tends to decrease by an annual average of 1.63% in the long term. These findings underscore the need for developing economies to restructure their energy policies and support sustainable technological initiatives and green entrepreneurship. Developing countries can reduce their energy intensity while boosting their economic growth by fostering technological innovation. This study demonstrates how technological progress and green entrepreneurship can be leveraged to enhance energy efficiency and drive sustainable development in developing nations.

Empowering Malaysia’s Youth: Assessing the Impact of STEM Education

The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) initiative in attaining the objectives specified in Malaysia's Education Development Plan (PPPM) 2013- 2025. This study emphasises the significance of incorporating STEM education in Malaysia, with a specific focus on its contribution to the development of analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creative thinking among the youth. The focus of this study is specifically directed towards the country of Malaysia. This underscores the need to employ a comprehensive and interdisciplinary methodology while developing a strategy The present study involves the analysis of replies provided by participants enrolled in a STEM education program. The dataset comprises demographic data of students spanning from Forms 1 to 5, together with information pertaining to their levels of interest in STEM. The analysis of post-program surveys indicates a notable increase in agreement and high agreement, particularly in the subjects of Mathematics and Engineering. This trend suggests an increasing level of enthusiasm among individuals toward pursuing careers in the STEM disciplines. A large majority (78%) of participants said the program influenced their future STEM interests, especially in engineering.

Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) Systems for Comprehensive Fire Safety Education in Primary School

In the evolving landscape of educational technology, immersive virtual reality (IVR) has emerged as a promising tool to enhance safety education for primary school students. Traditional fire safety methods, while foundational, face challenges in engaging young learners actively. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the intricate dynamics of integrating IVR technology into fire safety education for primary school students. By examining students' perceptions, assessing engagement levels, and evaluating learning outcomes, the research seeks to offer nuanced insights into the potential benefits and challenges associated with VR-based safety education. Conducted as a qualitative study, 25 semi-structured interviews were performed with primary school students (Grades 4-6 in China), employing a three-step thematic analysis. The research explores students' experiences with IVR fire safety simulations, comparing them with traditional methods, and addressing practical considerations for integration. Preliminary findings suggest positive perceptions, heightened engagement, and improved learning outcomes among students exposed to VR simulations. Practical challenges, including logistical considerations, were identified. The comparison with traditional methods illuminated strengths and weaknesses, guiding educators and policymakers. This research contributes to the intersection of education and technology by offering novel insights into the potential of IVR simulations in fire safety education. The study's significance lies in informing pedagogical practices, addressing practical challenges, and promoting safety awareness among primary school students, guiding future educational technology initiatives.

Order Management in the Era of Customization

The economic growth and development of the country largely depends on success in the main industries, where mechanical engineering plays a key role. The economies of different countries rely on industrial enterprises that satisfy people’s needs through the production of goods and services. To ensure competitiveness in a dynamically changing market, continuous improvement and development of enterprises is required. In the current conditions, mechanical engineering enterprises increasingly need to adapt to each individual customer, which in turn forces them to rebuild enterprises to the parameters typical for single or small-scale production. The production process is the joint work of tools, equipment and personnel through which products are produced. The complexity of the process of releasing new products is due to the involvement of a large number of departments involved in this process. Order execution is based primarily on the management of production systems. One of the most important processes in enterprise management is the order management process.The purpose of this study is to determine the methods of optimizing the order management process and reducing the influence of the internal cooperation factor on the increase of the period of its implementation at machine-building enterprises. As a methodological basis such general scientific methods as analysis, synthesis, comparison and contrast were used. As the information base, the article analyzes the works of modern authors who consider the issues of order management and such an element of the organizational structure as internal cooperation between departments, their influence on the internal processes of the enterprise and the timing of order execution. The features of the planning process for a single type of production are considered. In the course of the work, the main reasons for the shift in previously determined order completion dates, the most important indicators for order fulfillment, the peculiarities of the planning process at the unit type of production were considered, as well as the most frequently encountered problems during project implementation were identified. In connection with the trend towards changes and development of enterprises, in terms of changes in order management processes for customized products, an increase in the number of created enterprises and an increase in the share of customized products, a conclusion was made about the relevance of studying the order management process in a single type of production at machine-building enterprises. Conclusions are drawn about the need for further study of the issues under consideration. The materials can be used in companies in the real sector of the economy, in administrative structures and in the educational process.

Damage Factors and Protection of Low Permeability Reservoir

With the development of science and technology and the progress of society, people's production level has been significantly improved. In this context, people have also put forward higher requirements for the application and development of technology and processes in various production fields. The relevant construction technology of oilfield enterprises is no exception. Low permeability reservoir occupies a large proportion in China's reservoir resources. However, due to the small pore space and large fluid flow resistance of low permeability reservoir, it is more prone to reservoir damage in the development process, and even causes the reservoir to fail to produce in serious cases. Therefore, research on the potential damage factors and damage mechanism of low permeability reservoir and propose corresponding protection strategies are conducive to improving the development effect of low permeability reservoir. The potential damage factors of low permeability reservoir are systematically analyzed, which is of great significance to guide the efficient exploitation of low permeability reservoir.

From pollution to resource: advancing swine waste treatment in the USA

Concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) have led to environmental challenges, specifically waste management. Swine CAFOs generate large amounts of waste, requiring proper treatment to avoid air and water pollution. Conventional waste management technologies, such as lagoon and spray field systems, do not prevent air and water pollution impacts. Research for the past few decades led to recommendations for waste treatment technologies superior to lagoons and spray fields. Private environmental sustainability initiatives focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the food supply chain have implemented biogas digester projects for capturing methane in covered swine lagoons to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, research indicates that methane capture alone does not solve the broader pollution issues associated with lagoon and spray field systems still in use at these CAFOs to dispose of digested effluents. The Environmentally Superior Technologies (EST) initiative in North Carolina set public standards to eliminate waste discharge, reduce atmospheric emissions, and control odors and pathogens. Research has confirmed that technologies coupling solids separation with water treatments to remove volatile organic carbon, pathogens, and reactive forms of nitrogen can meet EST standards. A designated EST—the Super Soil System—substantially reduced odor by 99.9%; pathogens by 99.99%, nutrients (phosphorus and nitrogen) by >90%, and heavy metals (cooper and zinc) by 99%. The ammonia emissions were reduced by 94.4% for the warm and 99.0% for the cool season with respect to a conventional lagoon system. Corresponding greenhouse gas emission reductions were 96.7%. Components of designated EST can be applied to retrofit covered lagoons and anaerobic digestion systems with significant environmental benefits. Recommendations are proposed, based on the collective experience with EST and current trends in animal production concentration, for environmentally safe technologies to handle excess manure produced in the USA.

Understanding the Variety of Domain Models: Views, Programs, Animations, and Other Models

Humanity has long since used models, in different shapes and forms, to understand, redesign, communicate about, and shape, the world around us; including many different social, economic, biological, chemical, physical, and digital aspects. This has resulted in a wide range of modeling practices. When the models as used in such modeling practices have a key role to play in the activities in which these practices are ‘embedded’, the need emerges to consider the effectiveness and efficiency of such processes, and speak about modeling capabilities. In the latter situation, it also becomes relevant to develop a thorough understanding of the artifacts involved in modeling practices/capabilities. One context in which models play (an increasingly) important role is model-driven systems development, including software engineering, information systems engineering, business process engineering, enterprise engineering, and enterprise architecture management. In such a context, we come across a rich variety of modeling related artifacts, such as views, diagrams, programs, animations, specifications, etc. In this paper, which is actually part of an ongoing ‘journey’ in which we aim to gain deeper insights into the foundations of modeling, we take a fundamental look at the variety of modeling related artifacts as used in the context of model-driven (systems) development, while also presenting an associated framework for understanding, synthesizing the insights we obtained during the ‘journey’ so-far. In doing so, we will also argue that the aforementioned artifacts are actually specific kinds of models, albeit for fundamentally different purposes. The provided framework for understanding involves definitions of domain model, the Return on Modeling Effort (RoME), the conceptual fidelity of domain models, as well as views as a mechanism to manage the complexity of domain models.

Pulse oximetry in pediatric care: Balancing advantages and limitations.

Pulse oximetry has become a cornerstone technology in healthcare, providing non-invasive monitoring of oxygen saturation levels and pulse rate. Despite its widespread use, the technology has inherent limitations and challenges that must be addressed to ensure accurate and reliable patient care. To comprehensively evaluate the advantages, limitations, and challenges of pulse oximetry in clinical practice, as well as to propose recommendations for optimizing its use. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies related to pulse oximetry and its applications in various clinical settings. Relevant articles were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and data were synthesized to provide a comprehensive overview of the topic. Pulse oximetry offers numerous advantages, including non-invasiveness, real-time feedback, portability, and cost-effectiveness. However, several limitations and challenges were identified, including motion artifacts, poor peripheral perfusion, ambient light interference, and patient-specific factors such as skin pigmentation and hemoglobin variants. Recommendations for optimizing pulse oximetry use include technological advancements, education and training initiatives, quality assurance protocols, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Pulse oximetry is crucial in modern healthcare, offering invaluable insights into patients' oxygenation status. Despite its limitations, pulse oximetry remains an indispensable tool for monitoring patients in diverse clinical settings. By implementing the recommendations outlined in this review, healthcare providers can enhance the effectiveness, accessibility, and safety of pulse oximetry monitoring, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of care.

Research on the Application Maturity of Enterprises’ Artificial Intelligence Technology Based on the Fuzzy Evaluation Method and Analytic Network Process

The aim of this study was to study the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on enterprises in terms of strategy, technology, business operations, and organizational management. This study used grounded theory analysis to identify the influencing factors of AI technology application maturity in Chinese enterprises. Taking Chinese film and television enterprises as an example, this study constructed an AI technology application maturity evaluation index system for enterprises based on the analytic network process (ANP) and evaluated the application maturity of AI technology in enterprises in terms of enterprise strategy, technology, business operations, and organizational management. To comprehensively evaluate and empirically analyze the application maturity of enterprise AI technology, this study calculated the index weight based on the ANP, and combined it with the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to construct a comprehensive evaluation model. The research results showed that intelligence strategy was the element that was believed to be most affected by the maturity of enterprise AI technology. For technology, intelligence technology and equipment were the elements that were believed to be affected the most. For business operations, smart shooting was the element that was believed to be affected the most. With respect to organizational management, corporate culture was the element that was believed to be most affected. The results showed that the proposed methods for evaluating the application maturity of enterprise AI technology are scientific and effective. The results of this study provide a reference for promoting the application of AI, implementing the intelligence transformation, and enhancing the core competitiveness of enterprises.

Obstacles and countermeasures for protecting Internet of Things devices from emerging security risks

The rapid proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has ushered in a paradigm shift, revolutionising the way we interact with and perceive our environment. This phenomenon has given rise to a hyper-connected ecosystem, seamlessly integrating smart devices into the fabric of homes, cities and industries. While this interconnectedness holds tremendous promise for enhancing efficiency and convenience, it concurrently exposes a complex web of security challenges. This paper delves into the intricate interplay between the expansive scope of IoT deployment and the challenges it poses to security practitioners, policymakers and technology developers alike. By critically assessing current security gaps and potential weaknesses in IoT infrastructures, the research identifies key areas of vulnerability, ranging from insecure communication protocols and inadequate device authentication to insufficient data encryption. In response to these identified challenges, the paper proposes a set of innovative and pragmatic countermeasures aimed at mitigating emerging threats to IoT security. Emphasising the importance of a holistic security framework, the suggested countermeasures span technological enhancements, policy interventions and user education initiatives. The goal is to establish a resilient security posture that not only addresses current vulnerabilities but also adapts to the evolving threat landscape, thereby fostering a more secure and trustworthy IoT ecosystem. Through this research, we aim to contribute valuable insights to the ongoing discourse on IoT security, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics at play and providing actionable recommendations for stakeholders invested in fortifying the security foundations of our increasingly interconnected world.

The Frontiers in Manufacturing Technologies Initiative and University Innovation

AbstractBasic innovation, with universities as a key driver, is essential for advancing core technologies in the manufacturing industry. This study used a manufacturing technologies initiative as a natural experiment, combining funding and its outcomes data from the National Natural Science Foundation of China to construct a difference‐in‐differences model. It found that the Frontiers in Manufacturing Technologies Initiative had a positive effect on university innovation, particularly by increasing the number of university patents. Mechanism analysis showed that the policy mainly encouraged university innovation through university‐industry collaboration. The effect was more salient in universities with stronger basic research capabilities and those whose research fields matched strategic emerging industries covered by the initiative. This study underscores the crucial role of the Frontiers in Manufacturing Technologies Initiative in enhancing university‐led innovation. It highlights the effectiveness of industry‐academia partnerships in advancing technology, particularly in emerging strategic industries.

أثر التجارة الإلكترونية على سلوك المستهلكين في قطاع تجارة التجزئة في المملكة العربية السعودية

E-commerce in Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid growth, driven by technological advancements and government initiatives aligned with Vision 2030. This research aims to understand the impact of e-commerce on consumer behavior in the retail sector by examining factors influencing e-commerce adoption, the challenges consumers face, and how digital transformations affect traditional businesses. The study gathered data from consumer surveys, government reports, and previous studies, using analytical models to understand the relationships between variables and their impact on consumer behavior. Survey results revealed that e-commerce has significantly changed purchasing habits among Saudis, with many preferring online shopping due to convenience and a wide range of options. The key drivers for e-commerce adoption include convenience, time savings, and product variety, while economic factors like competitive pricing play a significant role in attracting consumers. Trust and security in e-commerce platforms are critical, as consumers seek assurance regarding the protection of their financial information and product quality. Consumers face challenges such as product description accuracy, return difficulties, and concerns about data privacy. Digital transformation pressures traditional businesses to adopt digital strategies to remain competitive. Small businesses face difficulties adapting but show potential for innovation through partnerships with major e-commerce platforms. Data shows a remarkable increase in e-commerce revenue in Saudi Arabia from SAR 38.8 billion in 2020 to SAR 204 billion in 2024, with the number of stores rising from 28,676 to 57,000 during the same period. To sustain this growth, companies need to invest in long-term strategies and diversify revenue streams. The Saudi government plays a crucial role in supporting this sector by improving digital infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and supporting startups. By adopting these recommendations, the online shopping experience can be improved, ensuring customer satisfaction and the continued growth of this vital sector.

Bridging the gap: Analysis of systemic barriers to irrigation technology supply businesses in Ethiopia

This study examines the barriers faced by irrigation technology and service suppliers in Ethiopia, and their influence on business effectiveness. Data were collected from 42 firm owners and managers across 21 enterprises through online surveys, phone calls, and in-person interviews in August 2020. Additional insights were provided by 35 key informants. The study utilized a qualitative analysis of survey responses by employing narrative and triangulating information gathered from several actors in the irrigation technology supply chain. The results indicate that a range of barrier categories, including difficulties linked to business enablement, technology user behavior, and business capacity, significantly impede the development and success of small-scale irrigation technology enterprises in Ethiopia. More specifically, barriers include the increasing diffusion of substandard irrigation technology products, such as water lifting devices, and a scarcity of genuine spare parts, which present major obstacles for small-scale irrigation technology suppliers in Ethiopia. Insufficient user awareness regarding the importance of maintenance and repair services has led to frequent equipment failures, eroding consumer trust and demand for irrigation technologies. Additionally, limited access to market information and financial constraints, including foreign currency shortages, further hindered suppliers’ ambitions to increase the scale of their operations. More importantly, lengthy import processes and inefficient tax exemption systems increase equipment costs, impeding the adoption and dissemination of technologies, such as solar-powered irrigation pumps. Addressing these challenges is critical for improving the supply and effectiveness of irrigation technology in Ethiopia.

Digital Technology Innovation and Enterprise Quality Development

Digital Technology Innovation and Enterprise Quality Development

Adoption of new banking models from a consumer perspective: the case of Iran

PurposeTraditionally, the banking and financial sectors have pioneered adoption of new technologies and business models. One important digital banking model that has proven its efficacy in recent times, is Digital-Only Banking (DOB) where consumers interact with their banks through digital channels only. Having detailed knowledge of what actually happens at the consumer level during the adoption of new digital models and technologies is paramount to the success of these technological initiatives. The present study aims to investigate DOB adoption behavior and possible barriers using a quantitative approach at the consumer level. A conceptual model is developed by extending the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, incorporating Trust (TR), Perceived Risk (PR) constructs and cultural moderators of Individualism (IDV) and Uncertainty Avoidance (UA).Design/methodology/approachFor this study, an online survey instrument was created and administered in Iran. The research sample was selected through the application of purposive sampling. Data from 788 respondents were analyzed. The proposed model was tested using Partial Least Square.?.s Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe results show that DOB adoption is positively influenced by Effort Expectancy (EE), Social Influence (SI), and Facilitating Conditions (FC), while PR negatively influences DOB adoption intention. Unexpectedly, the results indicate that TR has no significant impact on DOB usage intention. Additionally, this study demonstrates that with individuals having a low level of IDV, the relationship between PE and BI is stronger, and with individuals having a low level of UA, the impact of SI on BI is stronger. It also reveals that the impact of TR on BI is stronger in low individualistic cultures.Practical implicationsDOB providers should enhance support features of their services or provide facilities that make it simpler for users to accomplish online transactions. Here, in order to improve the UI/UX design of their apps, DOB product managers should carefully observe the technical guidelines of the operating systems of digital devices, such as the Human Interface Guidelines (HIG) for iOS and Material You for Android. Additionally, DOB providers should build partnerships with mega online retailers to provide hassle-free and easy to use payment solutions for consumers.Originality/valueDOB, as a novel and business model, has been investigated in very few studies, especially regarding any which focus on its adoption. To fill this gap, this research investigates DOB adoption through a modified version of the UTAUT model. The findings of this study suggest that future research regarding DOB should consider sources of TR, types of non-adopters, and context. This study, as the first of its kind in DOB literature, also highlights the significant role played by cultural values in customer behavior regarding DOB adoption.

Enhancing Martial Arts Safety Through 6G-Enabled Risk Assessment and Alert Systems

This paper proposes an advanced approach to enhance athlete safety in martial arts competitions by integrating 6G-enabled technologies with enterprise engineering and semantic integrity principles. Wearable sensors within a 6G network capture vital physiological data, such as temperature, pulse rate, opponent-induced force, and ECG signals. These data are analyzed using an Optimized Support Vector Risk Prediction Model (OSVRPM), optimized through the Vinegar Fly Optimization Algorithm (VFOA), to accurately assess athlete risk levels during competitions. Real-time alert messages, facilitated by the 6G wireless network, are disseminated to medical personnel, judges, referees, and athletes upon identifying heightened risk, ensuring swift intervention and reinforcing safety protocols in martial arts tournaments. This innovative integration exemplifies the application of modeling with enterprise engineering and semantic integrity to safeguard athletes in dynamic competitive environments.

Research on heterogeneous financial support mechanisms for innovation in different types of technology enterprises

This study employs panel data from 30 provinces in China (excluding Tibet, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan) spanning the years 2014 to 2020 to empirically analyze the financial support mechanisms for innovation in both technology start-ups and leading technology enterprises. The findings reveal significant heterogeneity in these mechanisms. Venture capital plays a prominent role in fostering innovation within technology start-ups, particularly in the incubation stage. Conversely, government support for these start-ups is relatively limited, primarily offered through initiatives such as technology enterprise incubators. In contrast, national fiscal policies exert a notably positive impact on the innovation activities of leading technology enterprises.