Search Results (72)

Background: Spinal deformity correction surgery, particularly in scoliosis, often necessitates long fusion constructs and complex osteotomies that create significant structural bone defects. These defects threaten the integrity of spinal fusion, potentially compromising surgical outcomes. Bone grafting remains the cornerstone of addressing these defects, traditionally relying on autologous bone. However, limitations such as donor site morbidity and insufficient graft volume have made urgent the development and adoption of biologic substitutes and synthetic alternatives. Additionally, innovations in three-dimensional (3D) printing offer emerging solutions for graft customization and improved osseointegration. Objective: This scoping review maps the evidence of the effectiveness of the use of biologic and synthetic bone grafts in scoliosis surgery. It focusses on the role of novel technologies, particularly osteobiologics in combination with 3D-printed scaffolds, in enhancing graft performance and surgical outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library to identify studies published within the last 15 years. Inclusion criteria focused on clinical and preclinical research involving biologic grafts (e.g., allografts, demineralized bone matrix-DBM, bone morphogenetic proteins-BMPs), synthetic substitutes (e.g., ceramics, polymers), and 3D-printed grafts in the context of scoliosis surgery. Data were extracted on graft type, clinical application, outcome measures, and complications. The review followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines and employed the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework. Results: The included studies revealed diverse grafting strategies across pediatric and adult populations, with varying degrees of fusion success, incorporation rates, and complication profiles. It also included some anime studies. Emerging 3D technologies demonstrated promising preliminary results but require further validation. Conclusions: Osteobiologic and synthetic bone grafts, including those enhanced with 3D technologies, represent a growing area of interest in scoliosis surgery. Despite promising outcomes, more high-quality comparative clinical studies are needed to guide clinical decision-making and standardize practice. Full article

This paper examines the internationalization dynamics of the Turkish HVAC industry in Germany through a qualitative design based on 24 semi-structured interviews with senior executives. The analysis demonstrates that conformity with EU and German standards, product quality, and continuous innovation are decisive drivers of international expansion. At the same time, economic volatility and regulatory complexity constitute major constraints. Organizational capabilities—particularly internationally experienced managers, R&D capacity, and strategic partnerships—are shown to enhance firms’ competitiveness. Furthermore, diaspora networks provide relational capital that facilitates trust and market embeddedness. The study contributes to international business literature by identifying critical success factors for Turkish HVAC firms in a highly competitive European context. Full article

Among the threats capable of causing disasters, earthquakes and hurricanes are those that most significantly impact the structures of buildings. This collaboration between UFRJ (Brazil) and UA (Portugal) aims to develop a house model that is both earthquake- and hurricane-resistant, within a specific range of magnitude to be determined, utilizing straightforward, affordable, and eco-friendly construction methods. SHS-Multirisk was developed under two phases. The first one carried out the design of the SHS-Multirisk 1.0 house model and the second phase comprised the preliminary conception of the SHS-Multirisk 2.0 architecture integrated with structural panels. This paper focuses on presenting the comprehensive research, development, and innovation (R&D&I) process of compressed earth block-reinforced masonry panels and the preliminary evaluation of their technical feasibility to be applied in SHS-Multirisk 2.0 house models. The steps of the process were explored in detail throughout process implementation, which revealed successive multi- and interdisciplinary challenges. Full article

Rising global populations, infrastructural development, and rapid urbanization have heightened the reliance on a linear economy, resulting in severe environmental and human impacts. This crisis has triggered an urgent quest for sustainable and ecologically benign innovations, as outlined in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This review investigates the potential of sugarcane bagasse (SCB) as a promising feedstock for advancing circular bioeconomy initiatives in South Africa. It shows how this copious bioresource can be utilized to enhance the country’s biobased value chains by producing bio-commodities, such as biofuels and platform chemicals. The review also identifies the driving forces behind the circular bioeconomy model within the South African sugarcane industry. To achieve the circular bioeconomy, it outlines essential technological prerequisites, including critical pretreatment strategies and emerging bio-innovations necessary for the effective valorization of SCB. Furthermore, it showcases the R&D and commercial strides that have been achieved in South Africa. Finally, the study covers techno-economic studies that corroborate the economic viability of this domain. In conclusion, harnessing SCB not only presents a viable biorefinery pathway towards sustainable economic growth but also contributes to environmental preservation and social well-being, aligning with global sustainability imperatives. The successful integration of these innovative approaches could play a pivotal role in transforming the South African sugarcane industry into a continental leader in circular bioeconomy innovations. Full article

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become a major threat to global public health, with the disease burden particularly severe in developing countries, China being one of them. The preventive and control effects of traditional treatment methods on NCDs are limited, and innovative strategies are urgently needed. In recent years, vaccine technology has expanded from the field of infectious diseases to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Therapeutic vaccines have shown the potential to intervene in chronic diseases through immunomodulation, but their research and development (R & D), as well as promotion, still face multiple challenges. Methods: This article systematically reviews the current development status of NCD vaccines worldwide and points out the imbalance in their matching with disease burden: current research focuses on the field of cancer, while there is a lack of targeted vaccines for high-burden diseases such as hypertension and chronic kidney disease; the progress of independent R & D in China lags behind, and there are implementation obstacles such as uneven distribution of medical resources between urban and rural areas and low public willingness to be vaccinated. Results: By analyzing the biological mechanisms of NCD vaccines and non-biological challenges, phased solutions are proposed: In the short term, focus on target discovery and improvement of vaccine accessibility. In the medium term, strengthen multi-center clinical trials and international technology sharing. In the long term, build a digital health monitoring system and a public–private partnership financing model. Conclusions: The breakthrough of NCD vaccines requires interdisciplinary collaboration and systematic policy support. Their successful application will reshape the paradigm of chronic disease prevention and control, providing a new path for global health equity. Full article

Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role in driving sustainable change across coastal and marine environments. Artificial intelligence offers strong support for environmental decision-making by helping to process complex data, anticipate outcomes, and fine-tune day-to-day operations. In busy coastal zones such as the Mediterranean where tourism and boating place significant strain on marine ecosystems, AI can be an effective means for marinas to reduce their ecological impact without sacrificing economic viability. This research examines the contribution of artificial intelligence toward the development of environmental sustainability in marina management. It investigates how AI can potentially reconcile economic imperatives with ecological conservation, especially in high-traffic coastal areas. Through a focus on the impact of social and technological context, this study emphasizes the way in which local conditions constrain the design, deployment, and reach of AI systems. The marinas of Ibiza and Monaco are used as a comparative backdrop to depict these dynamics. In Monaco, efforts like the SEA Index^® and predictive maintenance for superyachts contributed to a 28% drop in CO₂ emissions between 2020 and 2025. In contrast, Ibiza focused on circular economy practices, reaching an 85% landfill diversion rate using solar power, AI-assisted waste systems, and targeted biodiversity conservation initiatives. This research organizes AI tools into three main categories: supervised learning, anomaly detection, and rule-based systems. Their effectiveness is assessed using statistical techniques, including t-test results contextualized with Cohen’s d to convey practical effect sizes. Regression R² values are interpreted in light of real-world policy relevance, such as thresholds for energy audits or emissions certification. In addition to measuring technical outcomes, this study considers the ethical concerns, the role of local communities, and comparisons to global best practices. The findings highlight how artificial intelligence can meaningfully contribute to environmental conservation while also supporting sustainable economic development in maritime contexts. However, the analysis also reveals ongoing difficulties, particularly in areas such as ethical oversight, regulatory coherence, and the practical replication of successful initiatives across diverse regions. In response, this study outlines several practical steps forward: promoting AI-as-a-Service models to lower adoption barriers, piloting regulatory sandboxes within the EU to test innovative solutions safely, improving access to open-source platforms, and working toward common standards for the stewardship of marine environmental data. Full article

Since the early 21st century, urban shrinkage has become a significant global phenomenon. Dongguan, in Guangdong Province, China, is known as a “world factory”. It experienced notable urban shrinkage following the 2008 financial crisis. However, the city demonstrated remarkable recovery and ongoing development in subsequent years. On that basis, this study focuses on the following three points: (1) identifying the spatiotemporal factors contributing to the growth and shrinkage of manufacturing cities, taking Dongguan as an example; (2) explaining the influencing factors of the growth and shrinkage of Dongguan City during three critical periods, 2008–2014 (post-crisis), 2015–2019 (as machinery replaced human work), and 2020–2023 (the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery); and (3) selecting representative towns and streets for on-site observation and investigation, analyzing the measures they have taken to cope with growth and shrinkage during different periods. The key findings include the following: (1) The spatial dynamics of growth and shrinkage in Dongguan show significant temporal patterns, with traditional manufacturing areas shrinking from 2008 to 2014, central urban areas recovering from 2015 to 2019, and renewed shrinkage from 2020 to 2023. However, some regions maintained stability through strategic innovations. (2) Various factors, particularly industrial upgrading and technological innovation, drove the urban dynamics, enhancing economic resilience. (3) The case study of Houjie Town revealed successful adaptive mechanisms supported by policy while facing challenges like labor mismatches and inadequate R&D investment. This research offers insights for improving urban resilience and promoting sustainable development in Dongguan. Full article

The development and implementation of microbial consortium-based biofertilizers represent a promising direction in sustainable agriculture, particularly in the context of the ongoing global ecological and agricultural crisis. This article examines the agroecological and economic impacts of applying microbial consortiums and explores the mechanisms of technology transfer using the example of two countries with differing levels of scientific and technological advancement–China and Kazakhstan. The analysis of the Chinese experience reveals that the successful integration of microbial biofertilizers into agricultural practice is made possible by a well-established institutional framework that includes strong governmental support for R&D, a robust scientific infrastructure, and effective coordination with the private sector. In contrast, Kazakhstan, despite its favorable agroecological conditions and growing interest among farmers in environmentally friendly technologies, faces several challenges from limited funding to a fragmented technology transfer system. The comparative study demonstrates that adapting Chinese models requires consideration of local specificities and the strengthening of intergovernmental cooperation. The article concludes by emphasizing the need to establish a multi-level innovation ecosystem encompassing the entire cycle of development and deployment of microbial biofertilizers, as a prerequisite for improving agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in countries at different stages of economic development. Full article

In the context of climate change, it becomes of utmost importance to limit the negative impact of industrial activities on carbon emissions, water stress, biodiversity loss, and natural resources depletion. Whether we consider the situation from a product-centered perspective (life cycle, R&D&I process, tools, methods, design, production, etc.) or from a human-centered perspective (habits, practices, fixation, strategic orientations, emotional sensitivity, etc.), coming years will represent a formidable upheaval for companies. To support this transition, various tools assessing products’ impact have been developed over the past decade. They aim at guiding decision makers, integrating new criteria to assess project success, and promoting the development and industrialization of solutions answering pressing environmental issues. If assessment is a key factor of success, it has become clear that processes and practices also need to evolve for practitioners to properly integrate sustainable requirements from the initial stages of their project. In that context, biomimicry, the approach aimed at taking nature as a model to support the design of more sustainable solutions, has been the center of growing interest. However, no integrated methods exist in the cosmetics sector to assess if a product is properly developed through biomimicry. This missing framework led to difficulties for cosmetic companies to support eco-design through biomimicry. In this article, we present a method called Biomim’Index developed by L’Oréal research and innovation sustainable development team to address three objectives: (i) to characterize cosmetic technologies according to whether they are based on bioinspiration, biomimetics or biomimicry; (ii) to guide the project’s leaders to identify key steps to improve existing cosmetic technologies through biomimicry; and (iii) to support the integration of biomimicry as an operational approach towards the development of new sustainable cosmetic technologies. This method, focusing on the problem-driven biomimetic approach is based on a combination of procedural requirements from the biomimetics TC288 18458:2015 ISO norm and environmental design requirements from L’Oréal for the Future (L4TF) commitments. Results present a proof of concept to outline the method’s efficiency and limits to support innovative eco-designed projects and value cosmetic technologies designed through biomimicry. Full article

In the fast-growing new energy vehicle (NEV) industry, selecting an appropriate technological innovation strategy is vital for enterprises to achieve a competitive market position while effectively coordinating their resources to align with their technical capabilities. This paper integrates ambidextrous innovation theory and the resource-based view to propose a configurational model that examines how the synergy between technological innovation and resources influences NEV firm performance. Using regression analysis and qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) for 52 listed Chinese NEV companies, this study uncovered multiple growth paths and mechanisms. The findings include the following: (1) No single factor was a necessary condition for performance, but effective combinations of innovation strategies and resource elements led to multiple success paths. (2) Government subsidies and R&D investment emerged as key drivers of performance. (3) Four distinct configuration paths were identified, with variations across firms with different resource bases. (4) In response to reduced government subsidies, NEV firms must shift from policy-driven strategies to resource- and market-driven innovation approaches. These insights provide strategic guidance for NEV enterprises in selecting innovation strategies suited to their unique resource bases in the evolving post-subsidy market environment. Full article

The global building and construction industry faces increasing challenges related to efficiency, performance, and sustainability, which significantly impact project success, particularly in developing economies. The timely and successful completion of building and construction projects is crucial for economic development; however, various barriers hinder effective project execution. This study identifies and empirically analyzes the critical barriers affecting building and construction project performance in two developing countries with distinct economic profiles, Ghana and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). A comprehensive literature review and expert interviews identified fourteen key barriers to project performance, ensuring clarity and technical relevance. Using an empirical questionnaire survey targeting experienced professionals, including contractors, clients, and consultants, the study employed the Relative Importance Index (RII) and Spearman’s correlation analysis to rank and examine the interrelationships between these barriers. The findings reveal that poor communication (RII = 0.831, ranked 1st), project cost and schedule constraints (RII = 0.806, ranked 2nd), and inadequate monitoring and evaluation (RII = 0.786, ranked 3rd) are the most significant barriers to project success in both contexts. These challenges align with global sustainability concerns, particularly Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), which emphasize resilient infrastructure and sustainable urban development. The study highlights the crucial role of decision makers, regulatory frameworks, and financial planning in overcoming these barriers and enhancing project outcomes. By addressing these constraints, the study provides actionable insights for policymakers, project managers, and industry stakeholders to improve project execution efficiency and foster sustainable building and construction practices. Future research should explore adaptive mitigation strategies and technological innovations that enhance project delivery efficiency in developing economies. Full article

Innovation has played a vital role in continuing business operations worldwide amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Innovation is critical for the success and survival of global organizations. Due to the risky long-term nature of innovation, executives with decision-making power may act cynically. Such pessimistic actions become normal when executive compensation is based on the firm’s short-term outcomes. Therefore, the current research examines the effect of executive compensation on research and development (R&D) investment using data from the world’s top 48 innovative companies in Australia. The proposed model was tested using Smart-PLS (v.3.2.8). The findings indicate that board composition significantly and positively affects R&D investment. Likewise, the long-term composition of executives has a positive effect, whereas short-term executive compensation has a negative effect on R&D. Hence, this research suggests that to increase innovation, firms should control the myopic actions of top management by orientating their compensation toward long-term innovation. Full article

Most rare diseases (RDs) encompass a diverse group of inherited disorders that affect millions of people worldwide. A significant proportion of these diseases are driven by functional haploinsufficiency, which is caused by pathogenic genetic variants. Currently, most treatments for RDs are limited to symptom management, emphasizing the need for therapies that directly address genetic deficiencies. Recent advancements in gene therapy, particularly with adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) and lipid nanoparticle-encapsulated messenger RNA (mRNA), have introduced promising therapeutic approaches. AAV vectors offer durable gene expression, extensive tissue tropism, and a safety profile that makes them a leading choice for gene delivery; however, limitations remain, including packaging size and immune response. In contrast, mRNA therapeutics, formulated in LNPs, facilitate transient protein expression without the risk of genomic integration, supporting repeated dosing and pharmacokinetic control, though with less long-term expression than AAVs. This review analyzes the latest developments in AAV and mRNA technologies for rare monogenic disorders, focusing on preclinical and clinical outcomes, vector design, and delivery challenges. We also address key regulatory and immunological considerations impacting therapeutic success. Together, these advancements in AAV and mRNA technology underscore a new era in RD treatment, providing innovative tools to target the genetic root of these diseases and expanding therapeutic approaches for patients who currently face limited medical options. Full article

This article examines the challenges posed by national legislative frameworks in the European Union Member States regarding the management of publicly funded research and development (R&D) projects. Taking the case of Spain and its General Subsidies Act as an example, this study analyzes 55 R&D funding calls published by the Spanish Central Administration in 2021 and 2022. This research identifies key challenges associated with change management in these projects. This research performed a detailed review of relevant legislation and its application to R&D projects, alongside an analysis of regulatory bases making use of a flexibility index (FI) to assess the adaptability of grant conditions. Also, quantitative methodologies like Pearson’s correlation coefficient and principal component analysis were employed. The findings reveal that flexibility in project management, particularly concerning changes in scope, budget, and timeframes, is limited due to the rigidity of the legal framework. This lack of flexibility means a significant challenge for effective project execution, which inherently requires adaptability to manage uncertainty. This research suggests that future reforms should prioritize greater legal flexibility to improve the efficiency and success of publicly funded R&D initiatives. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of how regulatory constraints impact innovation management. Full article

The purpose of the study is to investigate the notion of Necessity-driven Entrepreneurs (NDEs) and Opportunity-driven Entrepreneurs (ODEs) among IME (Immigrant Micro Enterprise) owners in the hospitality industry and how changes in motivational traits influence business practices, innovation, and growth aspirations. In many geographical contexts, the ever-challenging hospitality industry is dominated by businesses that are immigrant-owned and of micro sizes that experience additional challenges compared to their native and large counterparts. Through qualitative research and interviews with 18 owners of restaurants and eateries in the IME category in eastern Norway, the study found that while NDE traits are dominant during start-ups, ODE traits also exist, revealing a dynamic relationship between the two and thus problematic to classify hospitality IMEs as either NDE or ODE. Experiences and close customer interactions rather than formal R&D activities inspire changes and innovations in business practices, growth aspirations, and perceptions of success. This study offers new insights into hospitality IME owners’ motivations and goals, which may be relevant in other similar industries and geographical contexts. It underscores the importance of understanding the interplay of NDE and ODE traits among IME owners and their impact on business success in the challenging industry in which they operate. Full article