Search Results (3,141)

This study aims to resolve the “secondary activation” challenge when erecting structures over goaf zones by employing a novel grouting and filling material. It delves into the performance degradation of the innovative ECS soil grouting filling material (ESGF material) within the goaf’s ionic erosion context. Erosion tests were performed on ESGF material specimens with varying mix designs to mimic the sulfate and chloride erosion scenarios commonly encountered in practical engineering. The macro-mechanical properties and microstructural changes of ESGF materials under ionic erosion environment were systematically investigated by various testing methods, such as unconfined compressive strength (UCS), SEM, XRD, TG, FTIR, and Raman. The findings indicate that both sulfate and chloride erosion lead to a reduction in the strength of the ESGF material. As erosion progresses, the specimens experience a mass increase followed by a decrease, with their strength exhibiting a consistent downward trend. In sulfate erosion conditions, the buildup of expansion product like ettringite (AFt) and thaumasite (TSA) inflicts substantial internal structural damage. Conversely, Friedel’s salt, the primary product of chloride erosion, exhibits relatively weaker expansiveness, and chloride concentration exerts a less pronounced effect on material degradation. Moreover, the cementitious material content and the proportion of quick-setting component play a significant role in determining the ESGF material’s resistance to erosion. By adjusting the quick-setting components ratio in response to changes in the water content of soft soil, the anti-ion erosion performance of solidified soil can be effectively enhanced. Notably, curing with a 5% sulfate maintenance could significantly improve the erosion resistance of ESGF material. This suggests that ESGF materials can be used without concern for curing issues in high-salinity environments during grouting. The research addresses the root cause of goaf subsidence while facilitating the recycling of solid waste, offering an environmentally friendly solution. Full article

The dental pulp is a dynamic connective tissue essential for tooth vitality, sensory function, immune defense, and reparative dentinogenesis. Conventional endodontic procedures, while effective in eradicating infection, often result in a non-functional, devitalized tooth, highlighting the need for biologically based regenerative approaches. The emergence of three-dimensional (3D) culture systems has transformed pulp biology and endodontic research by providing physiologically relevant microenvironments that better reproduce the dentino-pulp interface, vascular and neural networks, and immune interactions. This review synthesizes current advances in 3D dental pulp modeling, from scaffold-based and hydrogel systems to spheroids, organoids, bioprinted constructs, and microfluidic “tooth-on-a-chip” platforms. Each system’s composition, biological relevance, and translational potential are critically examined with respect to odontogenic differentiation, angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and inflammatory response. Applications in disease modeling, biomaterial screening, and regenerative endodontics are highlighted, showing how these models bridge fundamental biology and therapeutic innovation. Finally, we discuss key challenges including vascularization, innervation, standardization, and clinical translation, and propose integrative strategies combining bioprinting, stem-cell engineering, and organ-on-chip technologies to achieve functional pulp regeneration. Overall, 3D pulp models represent a paradigm shift from reductionist cultures to bioinstructive, patient-relevant platforms that accelerate the development of next-generation endodontic therapies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Melanoma is a malignant tumour of melanocytes. Cutaneous melanoma accounts for the vast majority of cases and has benefitted from advances in targeted and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapies, leading to substantial improvements in survival. In contrast, mucosal and vulvovaginal melanomas are rare, aggressive subtypes with distinct molecular and immune profiles and poor prognoses. This review synthesises evidence comparing cutaneous, mucosal, and vulvovaginal melanoma, with emphasis on biology, treatment, and outcomes Methods: A narrative comparative review was undertaken, examining the published literature on the epidemiology, molecular and immune characteristics, and treatment outcomes of cutaneous, mucosal, and vulvovaginal melanoma, including systemic therapies and surgical approaches. Results: Cutaneous melanoma demonstrates high tumour mutational burden and frequent BRAF and NRAS mutations, underpinning the success of targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Mucosal and vulvovaginal melanomas exhibit lower mutational burden, distinct mutation patterns, and reduced immunogenicity, correlating with poorer treatment responses. Surgery remains the mainstay of management, though optimal margins in vulvovaginal melanoma are unclear. Recurrence rates are high, and five-year survival remains poor. Evidence for systemic therapy is limited to small retrospective cohorts and subgroup analyses, showing lower response and survival rates compared with cutaneous melanoma. Chemotherapy has minimal benefit. Conclusions: Mucosal and vulvovaginal melanomas are biologically and clinically distinct from cutaneous melanoma and continue to have poor survival outcomes. Their rarity restricts high-quality evidence, highlighting the need for collaborative, innovative research to inform effective treatment strategies. Full article

Since increasing attention has been given to predictive maintenance (PdM) of industrial equipment, in order to enhance operational efficiency, improve reliability, and reduce downtime, this powerful strategy offers significant benefits, holds clearly great promises, and is now regarded as a key for future perspective in Industry 4.0. There are various approaches to PdM, each offering its own set of advantages and disadvantages which are single and hybrid approaches to carrying out diagnostics and prognostics in PdM. In this paper we will compare these approaches according to different aspects such as complexity of data and interpretability of results. Moreover, we also discuss the barriers to successful adoption, such as data quality, system complexity, and the need for workforce training. Finally, this paper concludes by identifying future research directions in response to scientific problems, which will drive the next wave of innovation in predictive maintenance solutions. Full article

The study focuses on an advanced numerical framework designed to optimize an electric car’s aerodynamic efficiency through the slanting front bumper. The study begins with a comparative analysis of four angular configurations (−4°, 0°, 4°, and 8°) using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). It concludes that an angle of 4° improves resource productivity and dynastic balance by reducing drag (Cd = 0.26) and guaranteeing controlled lift (Cl = 0.030). In order to further this research, ANSYS DesignXplorer 2019 R3 was used for parametric optimization, which included direct parameterization of the angle in the simulation process. A quadratic response surface was constructed using the CFD findings, and an optimality point with a Cd value of 0.2601 and a Cl value of 0.0302 was found at 3.9998°. Because this solution is part of the Pareto front, its use demonstrates the significance of the chosen geometric configuration. The approach is innovative because it combines a simple geometric transformation with an automated, repeatable simulation method to a degree appropriate for an industrial setting. The results show that modifying the front bumper in a particular way is a successful way to improve the aerodynamic performance of electric vehicles, with the added potential to function at other required locations on the vehicle body. Full article

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) with edge computing provides opportunities for the rapid growth and development of a smart healthcare system (SHM). It consists of wearable sensors, physical objects, and electronic devices that collect health data, perform local processing, and later forward it to a cloud platform for further analysis. Most existing approaches focus on diagnosing health conditions and reporting them to medical experts for personalized treatment. However, they overlook the need to provide dynamic approaches to address the unpredictable nature of the healthcare system, which relies on public infrastructure that all connected devices can access. Furthermore, the rapid processing of health data on constrained devices often leads to uneven load distribution and affects the system’s responsiveness in critical circumstances. Our research study proposes a model based on AI-driven and edge computing technologies to provide a lightweight and innovative healthcare system. It enhances the learning capabilities of the system and efficiently detects network anomalies in a distributed IoMT network, without incurring additional overhead on a bounded system. The proposed model is verified and tested through simulations using synthetic data, and the obtained results prove its efficacy in terms of energy consumption by 53%, latency by 46%, packet loss rate by 52%, network throughput by 56%, and overhead by 48% than related solutions. Full article

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most aggressive and lethal human malignancies, with five-year survival rates showing only marginal improvement despite decades of intensive research. Its dismal prognosis reflects a combination of intrinsic biological aggressiveness, late clinical presentation, and marked resistance to standard therapies, underscoring the urgent need for innovative diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Growing evidence indicates that the microbiome is a modifiable factor influencing the onset, progression, and treatment response of PDAC. Microbial communities originating from the gut, oral cavity, and even the tumor microenvironment can shape carcinogenic pathways, modulate immune activity, and alter the efficacy of chemotherapy and immunotherapy. In addition to bacteria, fungal and viral populations are emerging as relevant contributors within this complex ecosystem. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current mechanistic and translational evidence linking the microbiome to PDAC biology and therapy. It further explores microbiota-targeted interventions—such as probiotics, postbiotics, engineered bacterial strains, bacteriophages, oncolytic viruses, and fecal microbiota transplantation—as promising adjuncts to conventional treatments. A deeper understanding of host–microbiome interactions could yield novel biomarkers and open innovative avenues for precision medicine in PDAC, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reshaping therapeutic paradigms. Integrating microbiome-based strategies into PDAC management may thus represent a crucial step toward more effective and personalized oncologic care. Full article

The construction industry is one of the most resource-intensive and environmentally impactful sectors, responsible for nearly 40% of global greenhouse gas emissions, over one-third of energy consumption, and a significant share of raw material depletion. These figures underscore the urgent need to transform conventional approaches to project delivery and resource management. Integrating construction management with environmental engineering offers a comprehensive pathway to enhance efficiency, mitigate environmental pressures, and align the sector with international sustainability commitments. This paper presents a systematic review of peer-reviewed studies published between 2000 and 2025 to evaluate sustainable practices that connect these two domains. The review focuses on five thematic areas: project delivery and management strategies with sustainability goals, environmental engineering tools such as pollution control and life cycle assessment, green certification frameworks, waste reduction and circular economy practices, and the integration of emerging digital and material technologies. Together, these areas illustrate how managerial systems and engineering solutions can jointly foster sustainable outcomes. The review indicates notable progress in fields such as green certification adoption, the use of Building Information Modeling for resource efficiency, and advanced recycling technologies. However, persistent challenges remain. These include the uneven uptake of sustainable practices between developed and developing economies, limited application of digital innovations such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, and insufficient policy coordination to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By synthesizing dispersed insights across disciplines, this review contributes an integrated perspective that clarifies current achievements, highlights unresolved gaps, and suggests directions for future research and practice. The analysis is intended to support policymakers, industry professionals, and scholars in accelerating the transition toward a more resource-efficient and environmentally responsible construction sector. Full article

Magnetic nanomaterials with enhanced enzymatic activities have garnered significant attention from researchers worldwide. Magnetic nanomaterials, including nanozymes and immobilized enzymes, can initiate specific catalytic reactions in the diseased microenvironment for cancer treatment. In this review, we aim to present the significant advancements in synthesizing various types of magnetic nanomaterials with enhanced enzymatic activities and their antitumor therapy applications in the past five years. We first show the representative magnetic nanomaterials and elucidate their fundamental mechanisms related to magnetic properties and electromagnetic effects (such as magneto-thermal, magneto-mechanical, and magneto-electric effects). Secondly, we introduce magnetic nanozymes and magnetic immobilized enzymes and discuss the creative methods allowing the enzymatic activities of nanomaterials to be remotely enhanced by various electromagnetic effects. We also discuss some innovative magnetic nanomaterials that exhibit unique responsiveness to external energies (such as X-rays and ultrasounds) for killing cancer cells. Finally, we address future research suggestions in rationally designing advanced magnetic nanomaterials with remote increased enzymatic activities and discuss challenges and opportunities for efficient cancer therapy. Full article

This study presented the successful synthesis of a visible light responsive Z-scheme BiTmDySbO₇/BiEuO₃ heterojunction photocatalyst (BBHP) via the hydrothermal method, exhibiting outstanding removal efficiency for degrading the metronidazole (MNZ) in wastewater. The BBHP exhibited exceptional photocatalytic activity during the degradation process of the MNZ which was a widely detected pharmaceutical pollutant in aquatic environments. The key to the high photocatalytic activity of the BBHP was the formation of a Z-scheme photogenerated carrier transport channel which existed between BiTmDySbO₇ and BiEuO₃ within the heterojunction structure. This innovative structural design was experimentally confirmed for enhancing the separation efficiency of the photogenerated charge carriers significantly, thereby, the efficient photocatalytic activity of the BBHP was promoted. After visible light irradiation for 130 min, the BBHP achieved a removal efficiency of 99.56% for degrading MNZ and a mineralization rate of 98.11% for removing the total organic carbon (TOC) concentration. In contrast to a single photocatalyst, the removal rate of the MNZ by using the BBHP was 1.14 times that by using the BiEuO₃, 1.26 times that by using the BiTmDySbO₇, and 2.65 times that by using the nitrogen-doped TiO₂ (N-T) under visible light irradiation. The mineralization rate for removing the TOC concentration during the degradation process of the MNZ by using the BBHP was 1.17 times that by using the BiEuO₃, 1.29 times that by using the BiTmDySbO₇, and 2.86 times that by using the N-T under visible light irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation process of the MNZ by using the BBHP followed first-order kinetics model, concurrently, a dynamics rate constant of 0.0345 min⁻¹ was obtained. Furthermore, the BBHP demonstrated excellent stability and durability in accordance with multiple cyclic degradation experiments. According to the capturing radicals experiments and the electron paramagnetic resonance test experiments, it was determined that the hydroxyl radicals (•OH) and the superoxide anions (•O₂⁻) played key role during the photocatalytic degradation process of the MNZ by using the BBHP under visible light irradiation. Finally, the intermediate products that were produced during the degradation process of the MNZ were analyzed by using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometer, as a result, a potential degradation pathway for the MNZ was proposed. Overall, this study could provide valuable references for future research on composite photocatalysts and effectively maintain the safety and sustainable utilization of water resource. Full article

Environmental information fraud, such as greenwashing, severely impedes the achievement of global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Blockchain technology, as an innovation tool with a sustainability orientation, offers new possibilities for improving the reliability of supply chain information oversight. However, its practical application mechanisms and policy value in green supply chain governance remain unclear. This study focuses on the greenwashing behavior of core enterprises and constructs an incomplete information game model to compare and analyze the inherent mechanisms of traditional regulation (TR) and blockchain-based digital supply chain regulation (DSCR). By simulating the strategic choices of enterprises between “genuine production” and “greenwashing” within a supply chain network, this research finds that when the quality of on-chain information reaches a certain threshold, the blockchain consensus mechanism can more accurately reveal corporate moral hazards, such as information manipulation, significantly reducing the incidence of greenwashing. As the number of enterprises participating in the blockchain network increases, the reliance on high-quality information in the DSCR model decreases, and regulatory efficiency is further enhanced through network effects. The findings provide theoretical support for designing regulatory strategies against greenwashing: Blockchain technology can build a trustworthy supply chain ecosystem through cross-enterprise data verification, directly supporting the SDG 12 goal of “Responsible Production.” Its decentralized nature helps optimize industrial infrastructure (SDG 9) and indirectly promotes climate action (SDG 13). This study suggests that regulatory agencies use policy tools such as “establishing on-chain information quality standards” and “incentivizing enterprises to join the blockchain network” to strengthen the practical application of the model, while also addressing implementation challenges such as data authenticity and digital infrastructure compatibility. Full article

This study examined changes in the attitudes of early childhood teachers resulting from their participation in the ONDAS Training Program, a Colombian government strategy designed to strengthen professional skills and dispositions through reflective practice and the integration of research into training. A quantitative, non-experimental longitudinal design with a descriptive-comparative scope was employed. The sample consisted of 56 female teachers evaluated before and after the program. The 12-month intervention combined a three-module virtual course on innovation, research, and academic writing with an editorial stage and expert mentoring. Data were collected through a validated survey on three dimensions: support and resources, research skills, and pedagogical appropriation. Analyses applied descriptive statistics and intra-group non-parametric tests, with the Benjamini–Hochberg adjustment used to control Type I error. The results revealed improvements in research skills, stronger pedagogical appropriation, and more positive evaluations of support and resources. These transformations also included shifts in teachers’ attitudes toward research, greater openness to feedback, and increased confidence in implementing innovative proposals. Findings confirm that early childhood teacher education is a complex process that benefits from reflective, collaborative, and situated approaches, underscoring the program’s role in strengthening professional competences and enhancing teachers’ ability to critically examine practice and adapt to diverse educational contexts. Importantly, these results provide evidence to inform national teacher training strategies in Colombia, offering practical guidance for policymakers and institutions seeking to strengthen research-based, reflective, and contextually responsive professional development programs. Full article

Grapevine leafroll disease (GLD), caused by a complex of grapevine leafroll-associated viruses (GLRaVs), is among the most widespread and economically damaging viral diseases of grapevine. While its physiological and yield impacts are well recognized, the broader ecological implications for vineyard ecosystems remain poorly understood. This review integrates traditional literature analysis with bibliometric approaches to synthesize current knowledge on GLRaV occurrence, diversity, host responses, epidemiology, diagnostics, and management. Data from 729 peer-reviewed articles were categorized into six research clusters: global occurrence and first reports, viral diversity and characterization, host–pathogen interactions, epidemiology and vector dynamics, effects on vine physiology and fruit composition, and diagnostic and management strategies. Our findings highlight GLRaVs as dynamic pathogens shaped by genetic variability, human-mediated plant trade, and ecological interactions with vectors and vineyard biodiversity. Knowledge gaps persist regarding mixed infections, underexplored viticultural regions, ecological impacts, and sustainable management. Future work should prioritize high-resolution genomics, multi-omics approaches, improved diagnostics, ecological studies, and innovative management tools. By framing GLD not only as an agronomic but also as an ecological challenge, this review provides a foundation for more holistic strategies to safeguard vineyard health and productivity. Full article

This study examines the impact of structured internal innovation project management (IPM) practices and external innovation ecosystem (IE) characteristics on sustainable and responsible innovation (SRI) in EU widening countries. Using a two-stage Delphi-informed survey of 100 firms across Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Albania, and Serbia, the research applies moderated multiple regression analysis to examine the interplay between internal processes and external ecosystem maturity. Results show that both structured innovation phases and tools have a positive impact on SRI. However, while innovation phases consistently enhance SRI regardless of ecosystem conditions, the effect of innovation tools weakens in stronger ecosystems, suggesting a resource substitution dynamic. These findings challenge the assumption that greater ecosystem support uniformly improves innovation outcomes. The study contributes to the theoretical integration of the Resource-Based View and Innovation Ecosystem Theory, highlighting context-specific conditions in transitional economies. Practical implications are offered for managers and policymakers; firms in weaker ecosystems should prioritize building internal innovation capabilities, while those in mature ecosystems may gain more from leveraging external collaborations. The research advances debates on sustainable innovation strategies by showing how the effectiveness of internal management practices depends on ecosystem maturity, offering insights for both policy interventions and strategic innovation management in developing economies. Full article

A smart city can be defined as an urban ecosystem that combines new technologies related to digitalization in infrastructure, governance models, and everyday life, as well as inclusivity and stakeholder participation for achieving effectiveness and long-term sustainability. Although many frameworks and co-creative governance approaches emphasize the importance of integrating diverse perspectives in urban innovation, the practical implementation of stakeholder engagement remains a significant challenge in the development of digital strategies. This persistent difficulty often stems from factors such as varying levels of digital literacy, power asymmetries among stakeholders, and insufficient mechanisms for meaningful participation. As a result, there is a risk that smart city initiatives may fall short of their potential to deliver inclusive and sustainable outcomes, ultimately undermining both the legitimacy and the long-term effectiveness of urban digital transformation processes. This is especially relevant in the Italian context. Indeed, despite the relevant number of papers dedicated to stakeholder engagement in smart cities, few studies have explored how municipalities implement these innovative strategies, and even fewer have within the Italian context. This research aims to fill this gap by analyzing the stakeholder engagement in Rome’s smart city strategy and the effectiveness of participatory and co-creative approaches in transforming a city into an effective smart city. The research results reveal that the experience of the Rome Smart City Lab (RSCL) creates a model of participatory governance where the stakeholders can co-create the digital innovation strategies of a municipality and where the stakeholder techniques are fully implemented. The research results provide interesting results useful for both academics and policymakers involved in the digital transformation of a smart city, since the RSCL’s approach confirms that digitalization initiatives become more effective and efficient when they are shaped by the very individuals and groups responsible for their implementation. This participatory process seems to enhance the adaptability and sustainability of digital strategies over time, ultimately contributing to the realization of truly inclusive smart cities. Full article