The efficiencies and performance of gas turbine cycles are highly dependent on parameters such as the turbine inlet temperature (TIT), compressor inlet temperature (T1), and pressure ratio (Rc). This study analyzed the effects of these parameters on the energy efficiency, exergy efficiency, and specific fuel consumption (SFC) of a simple gas turbine cycle. The analysis found that increasing the TIT leads to higher efficiencies and lower SFC, while increasing the To or Rc results in lower efficiencies and higher SFC. For a TIT of 1400 ℃, T1 of 20 ℃, and Rc of 8, the energy and exergy efficiencies were 32.75% and 30.9%, respectively, with an SFC of 187.9 g/kWh. However, for a TIT of 900 ℃, T1 of 30 ℃, and Rc of 30, the energy and exergy efficiencies dropped to 13.18% and 12.44%, respectively, while the SFC increased to 570.3 g/kWh. The results show that there are optimal combinations of TIT, To, and Rc that maximize performance for a given application. Designers must consider trade-offs between efficiency, emissions, cost, and other factors to optimize gas turbine cycles. Overall, this study provides data and insights to improve the design and operation of simple gas turbine cycles.

The study examined the mediating role of supply chain security performance on the relationship between supply chain security practices and supply chain disruptions occurrences in the manufacturing industry in Ghana. Drawing on a survey of 336 manufacturing firms, dynamic capability, and contingency theories were applied using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the conceptual model. It was discovered that both direct and indirect hypotheses supported the findings of the study. The results indicate that Ghanaian manufacturing firms have made progress in implementing supply chain security measures. The findings revealed that the adoption of comprehensive supply chain security practices is positively associated with improved performance metrics, including reduced inventory losses and damages, faster order fulfillment and delivery times, lower costs related to security incidents, and enhanced brand reputation and customer trust. Policymakers can leverage these insights to develop support programs aimed at strengthening the security capabilities of manufacturing firms, ensuring they are equipped to compete effectively in both local and global markets, improving security performance, and reducing the likelihood and impact of supply chain disruptions. In the quest of bridging the gap between theory and practice, this research contributes valuable knowledge to the discourse on supply chain security in developing countries, offering a roadmap for enhancing resilience and performance in the manufacturing sector.

Heat transfer fluids (HTFs) are critical in numerous industrial processes (e.g., the chemical industry, oil and gas, and renewable energy), enabling efficient heat exchange and precise temperature control. HTF degradation, primarily due to thermal cracking and oxidation, negatively impacts system performance, reduces fluid lifespan, and increases operational costs associated with correcting resulting issues. Regular monitoring and testing of fluid properties can help mitigate these effects and provide insights into the health of both the fluid and the system. To date, there is no extensive literature published on this topic, and the current narrative review was designed to address this gap. This review outlines the typical operating temperature ranges for industrial heat transfer fluids (i.e., steam, organic, synthetic, and molten salts) and then focuses specifically on organic and synthetic fluids used in industrial applications. It also outlines the mechanisms of fluid degradation and the impact of fluid type and condition. Other topics covered include the importance of fluid sampling and analysis, the parameters used to assess the extent of thermal degradation, and the management strategies that can be considered to help sustain fluid and system health. Operating temperature, system design, and fluid health play a significant role in the extent of thermal degradation, and regular monitoring of fluid properties, such as viscosity, acidity, and flash point, is crucial in detecting changes in condition (both early and ongoing) and providing a basis for decisions and interventions needed to mitigate or even reverse these effects. This includes, for example, selecting the right HTF for the specific application and operating temperature. This article concludes that by understanding the mechanisms of thermal degradation and implementing appropriate management strategies, it is possible to sustain the lifespan of thermal fluids and systems, ensure safe operation, and help minimise operational expenditure.

In the current digital age, financial development has seen substantial shifts, particularly in buying and selling activities that are now facilitated by digital technology or electronic transactions (e-commerce), which offer convenience at relatively low costs. However, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which play a crucial role in the economy, must adapt to these advancements to sustain and grow their businesses. Despite the widespread adoption of e-commerce, many MSMEs have yet to fully capitalize on this technology. Limited knowledge often leads to hesitation in embracing e-commerce opportunities. Consequently, this study seeks to explore how innovation, information management, and e-commerce adoption impact MSME performance and its implications for business sustainability. The research targets MSME owners and managers in the Jabodetabek area (Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi) and nearby regions, with a sample of 420 individuals selected through random sampling. Data was collected through an online survey (Google Forms) administered to MSME management. The survey items were tested for validity and reliability, and the data analysis was conducted using various regression analyses with SEM-PLS and Smart-PLS3. The study’s findings highlight the following key points: 1) E-commerce adoption significantly enhances information management, which supports MSME sustainability; 2) E-commerce adoption also improves performance through better information management, further promoting MSME sustainability; 3) While technology is important, e-commerce adoption is the primary factor driving MSME sustainability, with technology serving as a secondary factor.

The purpose of this study is to investigate the correlation between sponsorship and the performance and development of early career athletes transitioning from junior level to professional sports, because this issue has not been fully explored in the Czech Republic. The reason is the almost absolute absence of financial or material support for such early-career athletes, when their transition from junior categories and the entire junior category is almost always exclusively financed and supported by their parents and families. We also emphasise the absolute absence of legislative provisions that would give supporters of such athletes at least a tax or other advantage. The research is based on research of Cardenas (2023), Hong and Fraser (2023) and Moolman and Shuttleworth (2023) and aims to assess how financial and material support provided by sponsors can enhance an athlete’s performance and long-term career trajectory. A mixed method approach was adopted, combining quantitative analysis through surveys and performance data with qualitative interviews. Data from 173 early career athletes from various disciplines were analysed using t-tests and ANOVA statistical methods to assess financial stability, access to better training, and community participation. Results indicate that sponsorship significantly contributes to better performance metrics, with sponsored athletes showing a 20% improvement in competition results compared to nonsponsored athletes. Furthermore, sponsorship financial support improved training opportunities and access to elite facilities, which was shown to increase athletes’ performance by 15%. However, some challenges related to sponsorship obligations, such as marketing commitments, were highlighted by athletes, underscoring the pressures that sponsorship can introduce. The implications of this study suggest that effective sponsorship strategies can play a vital role in an athlete’s career development, offering not only financial stability but also opportunities for personal branding and increased community engagement. Another implication is a possible consideration for legislators in the context of preparing a legislative framework enabling tax or other benefits for companies and organisations sponsoring or supporting these young athletes. More research is recommended to explore the long-term impact of sponsorship on athlete mental health and career sustainability, as well as the differences in sponsorship effects across various sports disciplines.

The use of infrastructure as a catalyst for Indonesia’s economic growth faces significant challenges. One example is the construction projects, which have not reached the intended goal and have led to an increase in investment cost compared to the original plan. Additionally, the interaction between the government and companies involved in toll-road construction projects under the public-private partnerships (PPP) mechanism has yet to produce good quality project governance and expected project performance. This study aimed to find empirical data on the determination of project intellectual capital and project ownership structure through good project governance on toll-road project performance in Indonesia. This study adopted a quantitative approach that involved data collected through a survey conducted among toll-road projects from 2015 to 2019. The data was analyzed with Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS). The results showed that project intellectual capital and project ownership structure significantly affected good project governance. Good project governance Practices significantly affected project performance. Project intellectual capital and project ownership structure influenced project performance through the mediation of good project governance. Conversely, two hypotheses were not supported by the data, i.e., the effect of project intellectual capital and project ownership structure on project performance. The findings of this research contributed to the literature regarding the implementation of collaborative governance in PPPs toll road development projects in Indonesia by providing a framework and assessment tools, which could be valuable for researchers and policymakers in analyzing and evaluating the governance and performance of toll road construction PPP projects.