Search Results (856)

This study aims to investigate the role of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies in facilitating the transition towards a circular economy (CE) in the manufacturing sector, exploring four key circular economy strategies—reuse, repair, refurbishment, and remanufacturing. This study combines a comprehensive literature review with case studies of ten manufacturing organisations from various sectors, including electronics, information and communication technologies, and the household and furniture industries. The research focuses on three main areas: the adoption of circular strategies, the challenges associated with implementing Industry 4.0 technologies, and the role of these technologies in enabling the transition to a circular economy. Data were collected through ten interviews with managers responsible for sustainability, corporate social responsibility, or circular economy projects and initiatives, as well as through documentary analysis of archival materials. The study found that organisations typically adopt multiple circular strategies, with repair being the most prevalent strategy across all sectors and adopted in every case analysed. However, the adoption of I4.0 technologies faces challenges such as scalability issues, digital expertise shortages, and outdated infrastructure. Advanced adopters of I4.0 technologies benefit from robust delivery systems supported by collaborative networks, which enhance knowledge transfer and development among stakeholders. Full article

Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) has emerged as a promising bio-electrochemical technology for sustainable CO₂ conversion into valuable organic compounds since it uses living electroactive microbes to directly convert CO₂ into value-added products. This review synthesizes advancements in MES from 2010 to 2025, focusing on the electrode materials, microbial communities, reactor engineering, performance trends, techno-economic evaluations, and future challenges, especially on the results reported between 2020 and 2025, thus highlighting that MES technology is now a technology to be reckoned with in the spectrum of biofuel technology production. While the current productivity and scalability of microbial electrochemical systems (MESs) remain limited compared to conventional CO₂ conversion technologies, MES offers distinct advantages, including process simplicity, as it operates under ambient conditions without the need for high pressures or temperatures; modularity, allowing reactors to be stacked or scaled incrementally to match varying throughput requirements; and seamless integration with circular economy strategies, enabling the direct valorization of waste streams, wastewater, or renewable electricity into valuable multi-carbon products. These features position MES as a promising platform for sustainable and adaptable CO₂ utilization, particularly in decentralized or resource-constrained settings. Recent innovations in electrode materials, such as conductive polymers and metal–organic frameworks, have enhanced electron transfer efficiency and microbial attachment, leading to improved MES performance. The development of diverse microbial consortia has expanded the range of products achievable through MES, with studies highlighting the importance of microbial interactions and metabolic pathways in product formation. Advancements in reactor design, including continuous-flow systems and membrane-less configurations, have addressed scalability issues, enhancing mass transfer and system stability. Performance metrics, such as the current densities and product yields, have improved due to exceptionally high product selectivity and surface-area-normalized production compared to abiotic systems, demonstrating the potential of MES for industrial applications. Techno-economic analyses indicate that while MES offers promising economic prospects, challenges related to cost-effective electrode materials and system integration remain. Future research should focus on optimizing microbial communities, developing advanced electrode materials, and designing scalable reactors to overcome the existing limitations. Addressing these challenges will be crucial for the commercialization of MES as a viable technology for sustainable chemical production. Microbial electrosynthesis (MES) offers a novel route to biofuels by directly converting CO₂ and renewable electricity into energy carriers, bypassing the costly biomass feedstocks required in conventional pathways. With advances in electrode materials, reactor engineering, and microbial performance, MES could achieve cost-competitive, carbon-neutral fuels, positioning it as a critical complement to future biofuel technologies. Full article

Background: Effective dentist–patient communication is pivotal for quality dental care and patient satisfaction. Advances in technology, such as the application of digital dentistry, have modernized how dentists and patients interact. Objective: The objective of this study is to review traditional and modern communication methods and how the latter enhance patient engagement. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (2000–2025) was conducted using keywords related to dental communication methods. Eligible studies underwent critical appraisal based on methodological clarity and relevance, and review quality was assessed using the SANRA framework. Results: While traditional methods remain foundational, digital advancements have significantly expanded communication channels. Teledentistry improves access through virtual consultations, electronic health records empower patients with transparency, and mobile apps facilitate convenient messaging and monitoring. Social media and interactive educational content enhance patient understanding and practice engagement. AI-driven tools further personalize patient interactions and automate administrative tasks. However, these modern strategies require careful implementation to ensure they meet clinical needs and adhere to strict privacy and security regulations. Conclusions: In conclusion, technological advancements have re-shaped dentist–patient communication, making it more flexible and efficient, thus enhancing patient engagement, satisfaction, and overall dental care quality. Future research should focus on conducting comparative and longitudinal studies to evaluate patient outcomes, satisfaction, and the long-term impact on the dentist–patient relationship across different hybrid communication models. Full article

The ideal crystal symmetry of the 1T-TiS₂ lattice results in a non-magnetic structure. However, recent studies have demonstrated that it may become magnetic upon substitution with transition-metal (TM) atoms. In this study, we examine the mechanisms and interactions that allow magnetic exchange through the TiS₂ matrix. Using density functional theory, we model the substitutional TM-doped TiS₂ (TM = V, Cr, or Mn) system with varying spatial distances to examine the effects on the magnetic exchange. Since pristine 1T-TiS₂ is weakly semiconducting, there is a possibility that the introduction of metallic atoms may induce an RKKY-like interaction. We find that the substitution of vanadium produces a standard exchange through the orbital interactions. However, the introduction of chromium and manganese may generate RKKY interactions with the conduction electrons. Overall, a more comprehensive understanding of how different dopants affect magnetic behavior and communicate through the lattice can enable the design of spintronic devices, which offer the potential for more energy-efficient technologies and a deeper understanding of low-dimensional systems. Full article

The global movement towards a cashless society has prompted the payment of tax obligations through digital platforms and sources. In this international race to ensure that transaction payments are not hindered by the lack of physical cash, Nigeria is also making progress. Therefore, the focus of this study is to assess the implications of digital payment systems in enhancing the effectiveness of tax revenue collection in Nigeria. The analysis spans from the first quarter of 2009 to the fourth quarter of 2023, utilizing the Autoregressive Distributed Lag and Error Correction Model. The research uses the most active digital payment systems that have been in operation during the study period. These electronic payment types include digital cheques (CHQs), Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), Point-of-Sales (POSs), Mobile payment (MPY), and Web-based payment (WPY). These are the predictor variables, while the tax revenue collection (TXC) during this period is the dependent variable. The control variables include information and telecommunication technology penetration rate (ICTPR), inflation, and gross domestic product. The outcomes of this study reveal that, over the long term, a percentage change in CHQs, ATMs, MPY, and ICTPR is linked to a decline of 8.1%, 12.5%, 6.7%, and 22.4% in TXC, respectively. In contrast, WPY indicates a 7.2% positive increase in TXC while inflation exerts a positive increase of 46.7%. The Error Correction Model (ECM) suggests that the deviations from the long-term equilibrium in earlier years are being corrected at a rate of 3.9% in the current year. In the short term, it is noted that digital payment systems do not influence TXC. On the other hand, GDP maintains a significant negative influence on TXC, in both the long- and short-term. Given these results, the study recommends the establishment of a robust information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure to enhance effective tax collection, even from rural areas and the informal sector. It is also important for the government to develop strategies that will bring the informal sector into the tax net. Full article

Rapid digitalization has resulted in an increase in the number of older adults playing electronic sports (eSports). Therefore, it must be investigated whether eSports have a positive effect on cognitive function in older adults. We explored the traits of facial color modification in Japanese older individuals while playing eSports by employing the facial color analysis technique proposed in this study. With the aging population, eSports have garnered interest as a means of extending healthy life expectancy. The quantitative detection of emotions obtained from eSports can function as an indicator for evaluating the degree to which individuals enjoy the games and can aid in the assessment of eSports to extend healthy life expectancy. Thus, in this study, we aimed to develop an indicator for quantitatively assessing the emotions experienced while playing eSports. The investigation revealed that information on color saturation in the cheek region exhibited a distinct relationship with the emotions generated while playing eSports. The identified characteristics can also be utilized in techniques to estimate the emotions generated during eSports activities. This can contribute to the evaluation of eSports in extending the healthy life expectancy of older adults. Furthermore, it can aid in the development of technologies that support remote communication. Full article

Gallium nitride (GaN) offers exceptional material properties, making it indispensable in communications, defense, and power electronics. With high electron mobility and robust thermal conductivity, GaN-based devices excel in high-frequency, high-power applications. They are vital in wireless communication systems, radar, electronic warfare, and power electronics systems, offering superior performance, efficiency, and reliability. Further research is crucial for optimizing GaN-based devices performance and expanding their applications, driving innovation across industries. The application of ion implantation technology in GaN-based devices is a key process that can be used to improve device performance and characteristics, which enables process aspects such as electrical isolation, ion implantation for ohmic contacts, threshold voltage regulation, and terminal design. In this paper, we will focus on reviewing the principles and issues of the ion implantation process in GaN-based device preparation. This work aims to serve as a guide for ion implantation in future GaN-based devices. Full article

Radar networks, composed of multiple radar stations and a fusion center interconnected via communication technologies, are widely used in civil aviation and maritime operations. Ensuring the security of radar networks is crucial. While their strong anti-jamming capabilities make traditional electronic countermeasures less effective, the openness and vulnerability of their network architecture expose them to cybersecurity risks. Current research on radar network security risk analysis from a cybersecurity perspective remains insufficient, necessitating further study to provide theoretical support for defense strategies. Taking centralized radar networks as an example, this paper first analyzes their architecture and potential cybersecurity risks, identifying a threat where attackers could potentially execute false data injection attacks (FDIAs) against the fusion center via man-in-the-middle attacks (MITMAs). A threat model is then established, outlining possible attack procedures and methods, along with defensive recommendations and evaluation metrics. Furthermore, for scenarios involving single-link control without traffic increase, the impact of different false data construction methods is examined. Simulation experiments validate the findings, showing that the average position offset increases from 8.38 m to 78.35 m after false data injection. This result confirms significant security risks under such threats, providing a reference for future countermeasure research. Full article

The rapid advancements in wireless technology and digital electronics have led to the widespread adoption of compact, intelligent devices in various aspects of daily life. These advanced systems possess the capability to sense environmental changes, process data, and communicate seamlessly within interconnected networks. Typically, such devices integrate low-power radio transmitters and multiple smart sensors, hence enabling efficient functionality across wide ranges of applications. Alongside these technological developments, the concept of the IoT has emerged as a transformative paradigm, facilitating the interconnection of uniquely identifiable devices through internet-based networks. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of sensor technologies, detailing their integral role within IoT frameworks and examining their impact on optimizing efficiency and service delivery in modern wireless communications systems. Also, it presents a thorough review of sensor technologies, current research trends, and the associated challenges in this evolving field, providing a detailed explanation of recent advancements and IoT-integrated sensor systems, with a particular emphasis on the fundamental architecture of sensors and their pivotal role in modern technological applications. It explores the core benefits of sensor technologies and delivers an in-depth classification of their fundamental types. Beyond reviewing existing developments, this study identifies key open research challenges and outlines prospective directions for future exploration, offering valuable insights for both academic researchers and industry professionals. Ultimately, this paper serves as an essential reference for understanding sensor technologies and their potential contributions to IoT-driven solutions. This study offers meaningful contributions to academic and industrial sectors, facilitating advancements in sensor innovation. Full article

The global increase in municipal and industrial wastewater generation has intensified the need for ecologically resilient and technologically advanced treatment systems. Although traditional biological treatment technologies are effective for organic load reduction, they often fail to remove recalcitrant xenobiotics such as pharmaceuticals, synthetic dyes, endocrine disruptors (EDCs), and microplastics (MPs). Engineered microbial consortia offer a promising and sustainable alternative owing to their metabolic flexibility, ecological resilience, and capacity for syntrophic degradation of complex pollutants. This review critically examines emerging strategies for enhancing microbial bioremediation in wastewater treatment systems (WWTS), focusing on co-digestion, biofilm engineering, targeted bioaugmentation, and incorporation of conductive materials to stimulate direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET). This review highlights how multi-omics platforms, including metagenomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, enable high-resolution community profiling and pathway reconstructions. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms into bioprocess diagnostics facilitates real-time system optimization, predictive modeling of antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) dynamics, and intelligent bioreactor control. Persistent challenges, such as microbial instability, ARG dissemination, reactor fouling, and the absence of region-specific microbial reference databases, are critically analyzed. This review concludes with a translational pathway for the development of next-generation WWTS that integrate synthetic microbial consortia, AI-mediated biosensors, and modular bioreactors within the One Health and Circular Economy framework. Full article

In the context of modern healthcare, the integration of sensor networks into electronic health record (EHR) systems introduces new opportunities and challenges related to data privacy, security, and interoperability. This paper proposes a secure distributed web system architecture that integrates real-time sensor data with a custom customer relationship management (CRM) module to optimize patient monitoring and clinical decision-making. The architecture leverages IoT-enabled medical sensors to capture physiological signals, which are transmitted through secure communication channels and stored in a modular EHR system. Security mechanisms such as data encryption, role-based access control, and distributed authentication are embedded to address threats related to unauthorized access and data breaches. The CRM system enables personalized healthcare management while respecting strict privacy constraints defined by current healthcare standards. Experimental simulations validate the scalability, latency, and data protection performance of the proposed system. The results confirm the potential of combining CRM, sensor data, and distributed technologies to enhance healthcare delivery while ensuring privacy and security compliance. Full article

The treatment of chronic wounds and pressure sores is an important challenge in the context of public health and the effectiveness of patient treatment. Therefore, new methods are being developed to reduce or, in extreme cases, to initiate and conduct the wound healing process. This article presents an innovative smart bandage, programmable using a smartphone, which generates small amplitude impulse vibrations. The communication between the smart bandage and the smartphone is realized using BLE. The possibility of programming the smart bandage allows for personalized therapy. Owing to the built-in MEMS sensor, the smart bandage makes it possible to monitor work during rehabilitation and implement an auto-calibration procedure. The flexible, openwork mechanical structure of the dressing was made in 3D printing technology, thanks to which the solution is easy to implement and can be used together with traditional dressings to create hybrid ones. Miniature electronic circuits and actuators controlled by the PWM signal were designed as replaceable elements; thus, the openwork structure can be treated as single-use. The smart bandage containing six actuators presented in this article generates oscillations in the range from about 40 Hz to 190 Hz. The system generates low-amplitude vibrations, below 1 g. The actuators were operated at a voltage of 1.65 V to reduce energy consumption. For comparison, the actuators were also operated at the nominal voltage of 3.17 V, as specified by the manufacturer. Full article

This study aims to explore the effectiveness of a problem-solving method, grounded in Pólya’s methodological proposal and complemented by a STEM electronic educational kit, in strengthening the research competences of newly admitted nursing students at a public university in Peru. The research followed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-test measurements applied to a group of students who addressed real community health issues in their local context. The intervention was structured into four phases: understanding the problem, planning activities, execution, and reviewing the solution. The results showed significant improvements across all phases, particularly in problem analysis, autonomous planning, technological application, and critical thinking. The Wilcoxon test yielded p-values < 0.05 in all evaluated dimensions, allowing the rejection of the null hypothesis and confirming the effectiveness of the intervention. It is concluded that the problem-solving method, when integrated with relevant technological tools, is an effective strategy to promote formative research in vulnerable educational contexts. Moreover, it aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals—specifically SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities)—by fostering inclusive, equitable, and contextually relevant education through socially and technologically meaningful innovation. Full article

Background: Early language development, a key predictor of later academic achievement, arises out of social interactions and communication. High-quality social and emotional interactions in early child care and education (ECCE) programs may therefore promote language-rich environments for young children. While culturally and linguistically minoritized communities face systemic barriers that limit equitable access to high-quality ECCE including social and emotional learning (SEL) programs, access to evidence-based SEL programs remains inequitable, disproportionately benefiting White, English-speaking, and higher-income ECCE providers. The current study aims to examine how I-T CHILD, a program designed to foster a climate that supports mental health and SEL in ECCE, improves the quality of the language environment using LENA technology. Methods: Implemented at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, 38 family child care providers located in an urban setting (63.2% Hispanic/Latine; 40% living in poverty) were randomly assigned to the 12-week I-T CHILD program or to the waitlist-control group. Data were analyzed using hierarchical linear modeling procedures. Results: Infants and toddlers cared for by I-T CHILD providers produced significantly more vocalizations (p = 0.002; ES = 1.50) and were exposed to significantly less media and electronic sounds (p = 0.032; ES = −0.97) than infants and toddlers in the waitlist-control condition. Conclusions: Our findings reinforce the importance of the mental health climate in ECCE and its circular effect on early language development. We offer key insights into how mental health climate interventions in ECCE settings can enhance language interactions, center the child, and foster foundational skills linked to long-term academic success for historically underserved populations. Full article

The rapid development of digital technologies is opening up new avenues for transforming education, particularly in fields that require practical training, such as electronic circuit design. In this context, this paper presents the development of a multiplayer virtual learning platform that makes use of digital twins technology to offer a realistic, collaborative experience in a simulated environment. Users can interact in real time through synchronized avatars, voice communication, and multiple viewing angles, simulating a physical classroom. Evaluation of the platform with undergraduate students showed positive results in terms of usability, collaboration, and learning effectiveness. Despite the limitations of the sample, the findings reinforce the prospect of virtual laboratories as a modern tool in technical education. Full article