Technological Upgrading Research Articles

Virtual Banker at your Fingertips Using Chatbot System

The Virtual Banker systemThrough AI-Powered chatbots, real-time announcements, and video call support, it will ensure an extremely smooth and interactive banking experience for its users. The improvements in this system include a responsive user interface with integration of AI and APIs to provide dynamically interactive responses and backend secure connectivity to fetch data in real time. This also includes the features dynamic announcement management, live escalation on chat, analytics-driven improvements, and more. Scalable, optimized performance, and robust security, the system is capable of offering a comprehensive digital banking solution. The platform features interactive and AI-augmented learning tools to enhance the learning process. These tools include AI chatbots, word definition features, and content understanding mechanisms, allowing users to engage with complex concepts effectively. The integration of quizzes, Q&A sessions, and other testing formats reinforces learning and allows candidates to gauge their understanding of key topics. This paper examines the implementation and impact of chatbot systems in the banking sector. It highlights their ability to provide 24/7 customer service, streamline routine banking operations, and enhance user experiences. Key benefits include cost efficiency for banks, reduced wait times for customers, and improved operational scalability. However, challenges such as data security concerns, customer resistance to AI, and the need for continuous technological upgrades remain significant barriers to widespread adoption. Index Terms -Virtual banker, chatbot systems, artificial intelligence (AI) in banking, natural language processing (NLP), financial technology (FinTech), customer service automation, banking operations, transaction efficiency, digital banking solutions, machine learning in banking, AI-powered financial assistance, banking security and privacy, user experience in banking, predictive analytics in FinTech, and voice-enabled banking chatbots

Impact of Telemedicine Adoption on Patient Satisfaction during Post-Pandemic Healthcare Delivery in Ethiopia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of telemedicine adoption on patient satisfaction during post-pandemic healthcare delivery. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Telemedicine has improved patient satisfaction by increasing accessibility, reducing travel and wait times, and offering flexible appointments. Patients appreciated the convenience, but challenges like digital literacy gaps, limited internet access, and data privacy concerns affected satisfaction for some. Personalized provider communication significantly boosted positive experiences. Disparities in satisfaction were observed, with older adults and low-income groups facing more barriers. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Technology acceptance model (TAM), diffusion of innovations theory & expectation-confirmation theory (ECT) may be used to anchor future studies on the impact of telemedicine adoption on patient satisfaction during post-pandemic healthcare delivery. Telemedicine platforms should be developed with a user-centric approach, emphasizing simplicity, accessibility, and adaptability to meet the needs of diverse patient populations, including older adults and those with limited digital skills. Policymakers should also introduce incentives such as subsidies for technology upgrades and reimbursement parity between telemedicine and in-person visits to encourage widespread adoption.

Carbon Peak and Carbon Neutrality Scenarios for Key Industries in Jiangsu Province Based on LEAP Model

In this study, strategies for meeting the carbon peak and carbon neutral targets are developed through an in-depth analysis of future energy demand and carbon emission scenarios in Jiangsu Province. The LEAP model was used to forecast energy demand and carbon emissions under different scenarios from 2021 to 2060. Under the baseline scenario, the energy demand of key industries in Jiangsu Province showed a high rate of growth, with energy consumption increasing by 2.35 times from 2021 to 2060, with an average annual growth rate of 3.46%. In contrast, under the Policy Implementation, Sustainable Development, and Innovation Promotion scenarios, total energy consumption decreased significantly by 45.98%, 58.96%, and 86.13%, respectively, demonstrating varying degrees of energy-saving potential. Projections of carbon emissions showed that the total carbon emissions under the baseline scenario showed a continuous growth trend, reaching 599 million t in 2060, with an average annual growth rate of 4.47%. In contrast, under the Policy Implementation, Sustainable Development, and Innovation Advancement Scenario, carbon emissions were significantly lower, as evidenced by a peak reaching 2025 or 2030 and a gradual decline. The industrial sector decreased year by year, the transportation sector showed an increasing trend, and the construction sector was relatively stable. Overall, with industrial restructuring and technological upgrading, Jiangsu Province is expected to achieve a gradual reduction in carbon emissions, but the increasing trend of carbon emissions from the transportation sector requires further monitoring.

Livestock Value Chain Mapping and Technology Needs Assessment in Samburu County, Kenya

A livestock value chain mapping and technology needs assessment exercise was carried out in Samburu County, emphasizing the beef, dairy and leather sectors and their associated needs in animal feeds, renewable energy, and engineering services. Livestock farming is central to Samburu County’s economy, supporting most of its residents. However, challenges like limited infrastructure, restricted market access, and technology shortfalls limit its full potential. The aim of the survey was to asses these value chains’ current conditions, assess technological requirements, and offer recommendations to bridge identified gaps. The findings show that the dairy sector remains underdeveloped, with only one cooperative, the Samburu Dairy Cooperative Society, involved in milk collection and distribution. Lack of modern cooling, processing facilities and policies restricts its growth. While the beef sector is more organized, it still requires advancements in slaughtering, meat inspection and marketing technologies to improve efficiency. Additionally, the leather sector’s potential remains largely untapped, with insufficient processing infrastructure causing high wastage of hides and skins. The survey also identified significant gaps in animal feed processing and high costs due to import reliance. Renewable energy, particularly solar, is promising, especially for milk cooling and meat preservation, yet more investment is needed. Addressing waste management through biogas systems and improved handling can mitigate environmental risks. Prioritizing infrastructure, technology upgrades and policy enhancements, especially in processing, cooling and renewable energy, will increase productivity and market access.

The Effect of 7 MWp Selong On Grid Solar Power Plant (PLTS) on Electricity Network Stability in NTB

The transition toward renewable energy is critical to achieving global sustainability goals, with solar power playing a significant role in diversifying energy sources. This study examines the effect of the 7 MWp Selong On-Grid Solar Power Plant (PLTS) on electricity network stability in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Indonesia. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews with five key informants, including policymakers, technical experts, and community representatives. Thematic analysis was conducted using NVivo software to identify the operational impacts, challenges, and opportunities of solar integration. Results indicate that the Selong PLTS contributes positively to voltage stability, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and diversifies the energy mix. However, challenges such as intermittency, infrastructure limitations, and the absence of energy storage hinder its full potential. The study highlights the need for technological upgrades, stakeholder collaboration, and community engagement to optimize renewable energy adoption in NTB. These findings provide actionable insights for enhancing grid stability in regions integrating renewable energy.

Common Institutional Ownership and Corporate Green Transition: Promotion or Inhibition?

ABSTRACT In recent decades, China’s rapid economic growth has been accompanied by increasingly severe environmental challenges. To address these issues and achieve sustainable development, enterprises have actively pursued green transition and technological upgrades. This study explores the relationship between common institutional ownership and corporate green transition by analyzing data from Chinese listed companies spanning 2007 to 2020. The findings reveal that common institutional ownership significantly promotes green transition, primarily through improvements in corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices and advancements in digital transformation. Further analysis identifies environmental regulations and analyst attention as critical moderating factors influencing this relationship. These findings suggest that companies should actively collaborate with institutional investors to accelerate green transition efforts, while policymakers should design targeted incentives and regulatory frameworks to facilitate this process.

A Study on Role of Government support schemes in the growth of MSMEs in India

This paper aims to explore the trends of budgetary allocation and utilization of MSMEs by Government and to know the various schemes launched by government of India for the growth of MSMEs. Tables and graphical methods have been used to know the trends of budgetary allocation by government for MSMEs. For these annual reports of MSMEs has been used hence, it is based on secondary data. The study finds that the government also allocated sufficient fund for MSME sector which shows increasing trend in the following year and the trend of utilisation was also increasing. The government has implemented several plans to encourage technology upgrades and modernization in infrastructure facilities as well as welfare of artisans and MSME workers. Enhancing the capacity of small and medium-sized businesses can propel economic growth through increased government budgetary allocation and usage for MSMEs. Innovation, increased competitiveness, and the development of jobs can all result from this help. Since MSMEs make up a large portion of the economy, they gain the most from additional finance, which boosts output and opens up new markets. This in turn creates a more dynamic and varied business climate, which benefits the economy as a whole Comprehending MSME programs guarantees that small and medium-sized businesses may effectively use accessible resources, financial assistance, and support services. MSMEs are now more equipped to expand, develop, and compete in the market thanks to this improved access.

Competitive Analysis of Cross-border E-commerce Business of Logistics Enterprises: The Case of Rookie Wrap Company

This paper discusses the competitiveness of logistics companies in cross-border e-commerce business, using Rookie wrap as an example. Through a comparative analysis of the development history, characteristics and comparison with other logistics companies (e.g., S.F.Holding Co.,Ltd), this paper summarizes the key factors affecting the competitiveness of logistics companies, including market size, revenue capacity, business diversification, growth rate, technological innovation and service innovation. It is found that Raiding Bird Wrapped, relying on the strong background of Alibaba Group, has a huge potential scale and influence in the field of e-commerce logistics, and actively lays out intelligent logistics and overseas markets. In contrast, SF has a more comprehensive business layout, including express delivery, supply chain management, e-commerce logistics and international business, showing a stronger anti-risk ability. The article points out that the key to enhance the competitiveness of logistics enterprises is to actively explore the market, increase market share, and adjust and optimize the business structure, focusing on the development of business strengths, while trying to expand new businesses. Through continuous technological innovation and service upgrading, logistics enterprises can consolidate their position in the fierce market competition and realize sustainable development.

Decarbonization of Indian Banking: Challenges & Pathways Forward

This study examines the challenges for decarbonizing the Indian banking sector, a critical step in India's commitment to the Paris Agreement. The objective is to assess the current status of decarbonization, identify key challenges, and propose strategic solutions to facilitate sustainable banking practices. In this context, the research employs a qualitative approach, analyzing secondary data from literature, policy documents, and industry reports. The novelty of the research lies in its comprehensive assessment of the multifaceted challenges financial, regulatory, technological, and socio-cultural specific to the Indian context. It provides a nuanced understanding of the sector's progress and the barriers it faces, which is crucial for policymakers and banking institutions. The findings reveal a mixed landscape of decarbonization efforts, with some banks successfully adopted sustainable banking practices, while others struggle with scaling and operational constraints. Key findings indicate that while some Indian banks have made strides in adopting green practics, the sector as a whole is hindered by high costs of green technologies, regulatory uncertainty, outdated technological systems, and a culture resistant to change. The study highlights the need for clear policies, investment in technology upgradation, and a cultural shift towards sustainability within the banking sector.

The Promotion of Anaerobic Digestion Technology Upgrades in Waste Stream Treatment Plants for Circular Economy in the Context of “Dual Carbon”: Global Status, Development Trend, and Future Challenges

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements and challenges of anaerobic digestion technology in waste stream treatment plants under the framework of the circular economy, emphasizing its role in achieving “dual carbon” goals. As climate change intensifies, with waste stream treatment contributing significantly to global emissions, there is a pressing need to optimize energy efficiency and reduce carbon outputs in this sector. Anaerobic digestion is highlighted as a solution for converting organic waste into renewable biogas and digestate, enabling energy self-sufficiency and reducing greenhouse gasses. The study highlights that anaerobic digestion enables the conversion of organic waste into renewable biogas and nutrient-rich digestate, facilitating energy self-sufficiency and significant reductions in GHG emissions. Successful implementations, such as in Weifang, China, demonstrate the feasibility of upgrading biogas into biomethane for local energy use. Advanced technologies like bioelectrochemical methanation and membrane bioreactors enhance biogas production efficiency, while co-digestion proves effective even in challenging conditions. Despite these advancements, the review identifies critical challenges, including high investment costs, technical inefficiencies, and regulatory barriers, particularly in developing countries. This study provides insights into integrating anaerobic digestion with circular economy principles and offers a foundation for future policies and research aimed at achieving carbon neutrality and sustainable waste management.

Sustainable Evolution of China’s Provincial New Quality Productivity Based on Three Dimensions of Multi-Period Development and Combination Weights

In this study, we aim to construct an evaluation system to accurately measure the development status and trends of China’s new quality productivity, which is pivotal for the sustainable development of the Chinese economy. In light of the current lack of a standardized evaluation index system and precise measurement methods, we have established an evaluation index system comprising three dimensions—scientific and technological innovation, industrial upgrading, and factor transformation—in alignment with the essence and traits of new quality productivity. By the combination of the entropy method and multi-period weights, we assess the development level of new quality productivity across China’s 31 provinces from 2013 to 2022. The findings reveal the following: (1) Substantial regional disproportions exist among provinces in the advancement of new quality productivity, with Shanghai and Beijing demonstrating a notable first-mover advantage. (2) While the levels of new quality productivity in most provinces are generally modest, an overall positive development trajectory is observed. Drawing upon these outcomes, a set of targeted development strategies are put forward, such as leading scientific and technological innovation, promoting industrial upgrading, and realizing the transformation of elements. This article can enhance our understanding of the spatiotemporal development pattern of China’s new quality productivity, offering a novel theoretical framework and practical approach for fostering new quality productivity tailored to unique circumstances. Consequently, it may facilitate the promotion of economic sustainability.

Role of Foreign Investment in Indian Economy Market – A Qualitative Study

Investment in any country is based on volatile factors for continuous investment. Any developing and non-developed countries want investment in the form of foreign investment to enhance their country's infrastructure development, technological upgradation, economic development, resolve the unemployment factor, and many other facilities for the country's development. In this article, the researcher applied the qualitative research methodology to find out the foreign investment role in the Indian market. In this article, the database was based on only a secondary database. In this article, the author defines that foreign investment is continuously increasing in the Indian market to enhance the economic condition of India. The government of India is continuously focused on implementing new schemes for increasing foreign investment in India. Keywords: Foreign Investment, FPI, FDI, FII, economic development

Performance enhancement of port logistics: a framework using hybrid approach

PurposeSeveral challenges and issues are involved in successfully managing and improving the port logistics system (PLS) performance. Ports still face issues, including insufficient cargo handling equipment or equipment sharing during loading and unloading, which requires manual container inspection and delays clearance. This research aims to enhance the port logistics performance at one of India's cargo-handling ports. This paper seeks to identify various situations, actors, processes, learnings, actions and performance metrics particular to India's major container handling port.Design/methodology/approachThe study objectives are accomplished using the Situation-Actor-Process–Learning-Action-Performance (SAP-LAP) framework, Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and Interpretive Ranking Process (IRP). The FAHP prioritises or ranks actions in a fuzzy environment. The ranking obtained by the FAHP method is assessed using the IRP approach.FindingsThis study examined action criteria and sub-attributes that define a PLS's effective implementation regarding handling containers in India. The results illustrate that strategic action must be prioritized first, followed by infrastructural and operational development, Technology upgradation and new methods and Training and Development initiatives.Practical implicationsThis research provides a logical framework for evaluating the importance of various actions throughout the decision-making process. It would assist managers and practitioners in interpreting the impact of critical actions on performance and improving the operation of PLS by constructing resilient and adaptable solutions.Originality/valueThe study integrates methodologies like the IRP, SAP-LAP and FAHP. It focuses on various actions for an effective port logistics implementation system. The findings of this study allow decision-makers to understand interpretative reasoning by performing pairwise comparisons among the factors.

The Evolution and Performance Response of Industrial Land Use Development in China’s Development Zone: The Case of Suzhou Industrial Park

Development zones are crucial spatial carriers driving economic growth and industrial upgrading, playing a key role in China’s development. After years of expansion, these zones face significant challenges in industrial land development and performance enhancement. This paper takes Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP) as a case, which is a model of Sino–Singaporean government cooperation. Using Landsat 4–5 TM data, socioeconomic data, and industrial land use data, spatial analysis and statistical modeling were employed to examine the evolution and phased patterns of industrial land use in SIP from 1994 to 2022. A performance evaluation system encompassing economic benefits, innovation-driven growth, development intensity, green development, and social security was developed to assess land use performance and its responses to spatial transformations. The results reveal that industrial land in SIP experienced a significant change in the intensity of land expansion from 1.031 to 0.352 during 1994–2022, and the peak circle density expanded from 3 km to 15 km. The mean value of the comprehensive performance score during 2017–2022 was 42.18, with the highest economic efficiency (40.54) and a lower innovation capacity (16.98). The development of industrial land in SIP presents the stage characteristics of monocentric polarization, polycentricity, and spatial diffusion toward a generalized development zone, showing significant path dependence, and the difference in the land use performance of different industrial types is obvious. In the future, the optimization and redevelopment of the stock of land should be strengthened to promote the optimization of the spatial layout of technology-intensive industries and the technological upgrading of labor-intensive industries, as well as achieving sustainable economic growth through innovation-driven, green development and enclave economy collaboration. This study provides a reference for the industrial layout and high-quality sustainable development of development zones.

Leveraging innovation and global value chains participation for industrialization: An agenda for research in Africa

This paper examines the intricate relationship between innovation and Global Value Chain (GVC) participation, with a focus on Africa's increased integration into global networks. The study underscores the importance of National Innovation Systems (NIS) in fostering technological advancements and highlights the potential of GVCs to drive industrialization in African countries. Despite challenges like inadequate R&D infrastructure, limited financing, and human capital gaps, African nations have opportunities to leverage innovation for improved GVC integration. Using a systematic search and review methodology, the paper critically evaluates existing literature on innovation and GVCs, drawing lessons for Africa for improved GVC integration. It identifies key themes related to innovation, GVCs, and industrialization, emphasizing the role of both government and firms in facilitating successful GVC participation. The study suggests that strategic government interventions, such as coherent industrial policies and investment in quality infrastructure, are essential for GVC integration. Additionally, it advocates for African firms to adopt proactive strategies, including technology upgrading and export activities, to enhance their competitiveness in global markets. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for cross-border collaboration and regional integration to strengthen innovation capabilities and support sustained economic growth in Africa.

Growth vs. green: unpacking the economic–environmental dilemma in major carbon emitters with panel ARDL analysis

Today's world is facing a criticalglobal challenge of rising temperatures and disrupted ecosystems, primarily driven by increased carbon emissions. The study aims to determine the major factors leading to carbon emissions in five major carbon-emitting countries: China, the United States, India, Russia, and Japan. Specifically, it explores the interplay between economic growth, natural resource rent (Natural Resource Rent: The economic benefit a country gains from its natural resources, such as oil or minerals, after subtracting the cost of extracting and using them), technological change, renewable energy use, and carbon emissions. The study postulates that economic growth and natural resource extraction bear a substantial interaction that contributes to carbon emissions. At the same time, technological change and the usage of renewable energy could probably become imperative to alleviate such emissions. This research, therefore, provides a good insight into the determinants of CO2 emissions in these key economies and the probable pathways toward emission reduction through innovation and harnessing of renewable sources of energy. Utilizing the comprehensive dataset between 1990 and 2021 and employing the ARDL [Panel ARDL (Autoregressive Distributed Lag): A statistical method used to analyze how different factors affect each other over time in a dataset that includes multiple subjects (e.g., countries)] model on the panel data, this study examines both the short- and long-term effects of these variables on carbon emissions, considering cross-country heterogeneity. The results underscore the significance related to guidelines for sustainable development practices and the necessity for these leading economies to lead the shift towards sustainability. By identifying factors that can mitigate emissions and enhance resilience, this research provides useful inputs to the policymakers who intend to promote renewable sources of energy usage along with technological upgrades. This study’s results contribute to the existing literature by making it a significant resource for future policy formulation and academic research in the field of mitigating climate change.

Back to Basics: Unraveling the Fundamentals of Lateral Flow Assays.

Lateral flow assay (LFA) is a rapid analytical technique that has been implemented as a point-of-care approach for analyte detection. Given the rapid expansion of the use of LFA as a point-of-care testing strategy, LFA development has been subjected to extensive research, which has resulted in upgraded designs and technologies, improving levels of specificity and costs associated with manufacturing. This has allowed LFA to become an important option in rapid testing while maintaining appropriate limits of detection for accurate diagnoses. This review focuses on the theoretical basis of LFA, its components, formats, multiparametric possibilities, labels, and applications. Also, challenges associated with the technique and possible solutions are explored. We explore LFA as a detection technique, its benefits, opportunities for improvement, and applications, and how challenges to its design can be approached.

Human Capital, Amenities and Trade: The Case of Malaysia

Human capital plays an increasingly important role in economies undergoing structural transformation that involves technological upgrading and sustained trade competitiveness. Both production and consumption amenities are essential to develop, attract and support a workforce with high human capital. Different types of production and consumption amenities are relevant for different kinds of activities at various locations. As human capital growth is likely to be accompanied by worsening inequality, complementary policies are needed to promote inclusiveness without dampening human capital development.

An Empirical Study on the Impact of Dual Credit Policy on Enterprise Innovation Performance

With the increasing global awareness of environmental protection and the accelerated transformation of energy structures, the new energy vehicle (NEV) industry has become a crucial strategic choice for governments worldwide to promote green economic development and achieve carbon reduction goals. In China, the "dual-credit" policy and other measures have been implemented to actively drive technological advancements and market expansion in the NEV industry. This study employs the difference-in-differences (DID) method to systematically examine the mechanism by which the "dual-credit" policy impacts firms' innovation performance through empirical analysis. Furthermore, it incorporates R&D investment as a mediating variable to explore the indirect effect of policy incentives on firms' innovation performance. The findings reveal that the "dual-credit" policy significantly promotes corporate innovation and effectively enhances innovation performance by increasing firms' R&D investment levels, thereby amplifying the policy's effectiveness. This research provides empirical support for the optimization of NEV industry policies and offers theoretical and practical references for advancing industrial technological upgrades and achieving green economic development goals.

Pre-Commercial Demonstration of a Photosynthetic Upgrading Plant: Investment and Operating Cost Analysis

Pig farms have been identified as one of the most important sources of greenhouse gas emissions. This study demonstrates the production of vehicle biomethane in a demonstration prototype plant based on photosynthetic upgrading technology, where the CO2 and H2S present in biogas are consumed by a microalgae culture. The information collected during the prototype construction allowed for an assessment of the capital and operating costs of this novel biogas upgrading technology with other conventional systems. With this objective, the costs of the equipment comprising the biogas cleaning and purification system were calculated considering a biogas flow rate of 5 m3 h−1, corresponding to a small–medium biogas plant and an average pig farm size. The sustainability and competitiveness of the algae upgrading system and the low capital and operating costs vis à vis other upgrading technologies were proven. With a net energy production of 687 kWh day−1 and an annual profit of 30,348 € in a 3500 head pig farm, this technology can be easily installed in livestock farms, increasing the benefits and reducing the carbon footprint.