Search Results (160)

In aerospace, defense, and energy systems, ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are smart structural materials designed to function continuously in harsh mechanical, thermal, and oxidative conditions. Using high-strength fiber reinforcements and tailored interphases that enable damage-tolerant behavior, their creation tackles the intrinsic brittleness and low fracture toughness of monolithic ceramics. With a focus on chemical vapor infiltration, polymer infiltration and pyrolysis, melt infiltration, and additive manufacturing, this paper critically analyzes current developments in microstructural design, processing technologies, and interfacial engineering. Toughening mechanisms are examined in connection to multiscale mechanical responses, including controlled debonding, fiber bridging, fracture deflection, and energy dissipation pathways. Cutting-edge environmental barrier coatings are assessed alongside environmental durability issues like oxidation, volatilization, and hot corrosion. High-performance braking, nuclear systems, hypersonic vehicles, and turbine propulsion are evaluated as emerging uses. Future directions emphasize self-healing systems, ultra-high-temperature design, and environmentally friendly production methods. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nonunion bone healing results from a critical size defect that fails to bridge a bone injury to produce bony union. Novel approaches are critical for refining therapy in clinically challenging bone injuries, but the complex and coordinated nature of fracture callus tissue development requires study outside of the simple closed murine fracture model. Methods: We have utilized a three-dimensional printing approach to develop a scaffold construct with layers designed to sequentially release small molecule therapy within the tissues of a murine endochondral segmental defect to augment different mechanisms of fracture repair during critical stages of nonunion bone healing. Initially, a sonic hedgehog (SHH) agonist is released from a fibrin layer to promote chondrogenesis. A prolyl-hydroxylase domain (PHD)2 inhibitor is subsequently released from a β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) layer to promote hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α regulation of angiogenesis. This sequential approach to therapy delivery is assisted by the inclusion of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) to increase the cell substrate available for the small molecule therapy. Results: Immunohistochemistry of fracture callus tissue revealed increased expression of PTCH1 and HIF1α, targets of hedgehog and hypoxia signaling pathways, respectively, in the SAG21k/IOX2-treated mice compared to vehicle control. MicroCT and histology analyses showed increased bone in the fracture callus of mice that received therapy compared to control vehicle scaffolds. Conclusions: While our findings establish feasibility for the use of BMSCs and small molecules in the fibrin gel/β-TCP scaffolds to promote new bone formation for segmental defect healing, further optimization of these approaches is required to develop a fracture callus capable of completing bony union in a large defect. Full article

Periodontal disease represents a major global concern characterized by chronic biofilm-driven inflammation, excessive oxidative stress, progressive tissue destruction, and impaired regenerative capacity. Beyond conventional antimicrobial approaches, recent progress has shifted toward host-directed and regenerative therapeutic strategies aimed at restoring both oral function and tissue homeostasis. This review consolidates current developments in nanobiotechnology-based materials that modulate immune responses, scavenge reactive oxygen species, and promote angiogenesis and osteogenesis, thereby facilitating the effective regeneration of dental and periodontal tissues. Emphasis is placed on bioresponsive hydrogels, bioactive scaffolds, and gas-releasing platforms that integrate therapeutic regulation with tissue repair. The discussion further highlights key advances in polymeric and inorganic biomaterials designed to balance antibacterial action with cellular compatibility and regenerative potential. By linking pathophysiological mechanisms with material-guided healing processes, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on emerging nanobiotechnological solutions that bridge patho-therapeutics with regenerative and clinical dentistry. Full article

The rapid expansion of lithium-ion battery applications calls for efficient and reliable thermal management to ensure safety and performance. Liquid thermal management systems (LTMS) offer high cooling efficiency and uniform temperature control, effectively preventing thermal runaway. This review focuses on composite LTMS that integrate phase change materials and nanofluids and discusses how thermal modeling optimizes key material parameters. Despite notable progress, challenges remain in compatibility, stability, and sustainability. Emerging smart, self-healing, and AI-assisted materials are expected to drive the next generation of intelligent battery cooling systems. Compared with air-cooling systems (maximum temperature ≈ 55 °C, temperature difference ΔT ≈ 10 °C), liquid-based systems can reduce the peak temperature to below 42 °C and improve temperature uniformity (ΔT ≤ 5 °C). Particularly, nanofluid-enhanced LTMS achieve up to 15%~20% higher heat transfer efficiency and 3~5 °C lower surface temperature compared with conventional water-glycol cooling. Direct immersion cooling using dielectric fluids such as HFE-7000 further decreases the maximum temperature to ≈37 °C with ΔT ≈ 3.5 °C, achieving a cooling efficiency above 88%. Thermal modeling results show that accurate representation of material parameters (e.g., interfacial thermal resistance R₍int₎ and thermal conductivity k) can reduce simulation error by more than 30%. This work uniquely bridges materials science with thermal system engineering through AI-driven innovation, providing a data-guided route for next-generation adaptive LTMS design. Full article

Background/Objectives: Computed tomography remains the reference standard for assessing lumbar interbody fusion, yet significant methodological heterogeneity, documented across more than 250 different assessment combinations, directly impacts treatment decisions and outcome reporting. The main challenge is applying uniform criteria to technique-specific anatomical configurations that generate distinct bridging patterns. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes evidence from 2000 to 2025 through PubMed and Google Scholar searches, examining imaging protocols, radiographic criteria validated against surgical exploration and reliability studies, and classification systems with emphasis on clinical application. Results: Modern protocols that incorporate iterative metal artifact reduction and dual-energy imaging substantially improve visualization of the hardware–bone interface. Zone-based evaluation shows that bridging patterns primarily reflect cage configuration and graft placement strategy rather than the surgical approach alone—a key distinction that affects assessment methodology. Validation studies confirm higher inter-observer reliability for extracage zones (ICC 0.79–0.84) compared to intracage regions (ICC 0.70–0.79). Evidence supports three main bridging patterns: graft-dependent consolidation, ungrafted-zone bridging, and accessibility-dependent variation. Assessment at 12 months captures most successful fusions, although 15–16% show delayed progress and require longer follow-up. Conclusions: This review synthesizes current evidence on technical optimization and temporal healing patterns, proposing a principle-based interpretive framework that accommodates technique-specific differences instead of strict categorical criteria. This framework allows personalized assessment correlated with surgical documentation, addressing the documented heterogeneity while enhancing diagnostic consistency. Full article

Severe lost circulation frequently occurs in deep and ultra-deep wells under high-temperature/high-pressure (HPHT) conditions and in fracture-cavity composite loss channels. Conventional lost-circulation materials (LCMs) often fail because of premature loss of mobility, insufficient residence in loss paths, and irreversible failure after solidification. Cement-based sealing systems, owing to their ability to plug large leakage channels and their cost-effectiveness, have become the mainstream solution. To improve their performance under extreme downhole conditions, recent studies have focused on base-cement design, reinforcement phases, and property regulation strategies-including the use of granular/fibrous/nanoscale additives for bridging reinforcement, rheology and thickening control to enhance injectability and residence, and chemical/functional modifiers to improve compactness and durability of the hardened matrix. Significant progress has been achieved in terms of HPHT resistance, densification design, regulation of rheological properties and thickening behavior, and self-healing/responsive sealing functions. However, most existing studies still focus on improving individual properties and lack a cross-scale, holistic design and unified mechanistic perspective for fracture-cavity coupled flow and long-term sealing stability. Distinct from previous reviews that mainly catalogue material types or discuss single-performance optimization, this review is framed by fracture-cavity composite loss channels and long-term sealing requirements under HPHT conditions, systematically synthesizes the material design strategies, reinforcement mechanisms and applicability boundaries of cement-based plugging systems, builds cross-scale linkages among these aspects, and proposes future research directions toward sustainable plugging design. Full article

Vanillin (4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde) is widely recognized for its aromatic flavor and established pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. While these biological activities underpin its therapeutic potential, recent advances have expanded the application of vanillin into the field of biomaterials. In particular, vanillin’s unique chemical structure enables its use as a multifunctional building block for the development of innovative hydrogels with dynamic covalent bonding, injectability, and self-healing capabilities. Vanillin-based hydrogels have demonstrated promising applications in wound healing, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and antimicrobial platforms, combining structural support with intrinsic bioactivity. These hydrogels benefit from vanillin’s biocompatibility and functional versatility, enhancing mechanical properties and therapeutic efficacy. This review provides an overview of vanillin’s pharmacological effects, with a primary focus on the synthesis, properties, and biomedical applications of vanillin-derived hydrogels. By highlighting recent material innovations and their translational potential, we aim to position vanillin as a valuable natural compound bridging bioactivity and biomaterial science for future clinical and therapeutic advancements. Full article

Amidst deepening ecological disruption and widespread disconnection from nature, this study explores the emerging field of Earth Awareness (EA) as a relational and experiential aspect of advancing planetary health. EA practices—rooted in Buddhist, Indigenous, mindfulness, and nature-based traditions—support direct experiences of interconnectedness with Earth, ecological awareness and consciousness, and opportunities to transform underlying patterns and systems. Through 45 reflective dialogues with teachers and practitioners across traditions, this participatory research identifies common inspirations, intentions, and challenges that shape the emerging EA field. Findings reveal that EA is characterized by contemplative practices, rituals, and ceremonies that bridge inner transformation and outer action in the world. Central intentions such as healing, interconnectedness, and justice align closely with planetary health priorities, including mental well-being, equity, and stewardship of the living world. Although the field faces challenges related to access, risk of cultural appropriation, and systemic separation, participants identified opportunities for community building, intercultural exchange, and centering Earth as teacher and co-participant. By mapping coherence in this diverse field, this study highlights EA’s potential to contribute to planetary health by reconnecting people with place, fostering a more ecological consciousness, and supporting culturally grounded pathways for collective action and care for Earth. Full article

Globularia alypum L. (Plantaginaceae) is widespread in the Mediterranean region and traditionally used against diabetes, digestive disorders, infections, and skin problems. This review summarizes its botanical features, ethnobotanical uses, phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, and toxicological profile. Relevant studies published between 1991 and 2024 were retrieved from Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and other relevant databases using targeted keywords in English and French. Extracts of G. alypum have shown significant antidiabetic, antioxidant, anticancer, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, nephroprotective, and wound-healing activities in vitro and in vivo, which were largely attributed to its diverse secondary metabolites such as phenolics, flavonoids, and iridoids. Toxicological studies indicate generally low risk at tested doses. However, further research is needed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying these activities, validate its efficacy through clinical trials, and evaluate long-term safety, thereby bridging traditional knowledge with modern pharmacological evidence. Full article

Succinoglycan (SG), a rhizobial exopolysaccharide produced by Sinorhizobium meliloti, has attracted increasing attention as a sustainable biomaterial due to its unique molecular structure and versatile physicochemical properties. Over the past decade, an expanding number of studies have explored SG in biomedical, pharmaceutical, and materials-science contexts; however, a comprehensive understanding linking its biosynthetic mechanisms, structural features, chemical modifications, and functional performances has not yet been systematically summarized. This review therefore aims to bridge this gap by providing an integrated overview of recent advances in SG research from biosynthesis and molecular design to emerging multifunctional applications, while highlighting the structure, property, and function correlations that underpin its material performance. This review summarizes recent advances in SG biosynthesis, structural characterization, chemical modification, and multifunctional applications. Progress in oxidation, succinylation, and phenolic grafting has yielded derivatives with remarkably enhanced rheological stability, antioxidant capacity, antibacterial activity, and multi-stimuli responsiveness. These developments have supported the creation of biodegradable and bioactive smart films possessing superior barrier, mechanical, and optical properties, thereby extending their potential use in bio-medical and biotechnological applications such as food packaging and wound dressings. In parallel, SG-based hydrogels exhibit self-healing, adhesive, and injectable characteristics with tunable multi-stimuli responsiveness, offering innovative platforms for con-trolled drug delivery and tissue engineering. Despite these advances, industrial translation remains hindered by challenges including the need for scalable fermentation, reproducible quality control, and standardized modification protocols to ensure batch-to-batch consistency. Overall, the structural tunability and multifunctionality of SG highlight its promise as a next-generation platform for polysaccharide-based biomaterials. Full article

Self-healing polymer-based coatings have emerged as a new generation of adaptive protective materials capable of restoring their structure and function after damage. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of current strategies enabling autonomous or externally triggered repair in polymeric films, including encapsulation, reversible chemistry, and microvascular network formation. Emphasis is placed on polymer–inorganic hybrid composites and vitrimeric systems, which integrate barrier protection with stimuli-responsive healing and recyclability. Comparative performance across different matrices—epoxy, polyurethane, silicone, and polyimine—is discussed in relation to corrosion protection and biomedical interfaces. The review also highlights how dynamic covalent and supramolecular interactions in hydrogels enable self-repair under physiological conditions. Recent advances demonstrate that tailoring interfacial compatibility, healing kinetics, and trigger specificity can achieve repeatable, multi-cycle recovery of both mechanical integrity and functional performance. A representative selection of published patents is also shown to illustrate recent technological advancements in the field. Finally, key challenges are identified in standardizing evaluation protocols, ensuring long-term stability, and scaling sustainable manufacturing. Collectively, these developments illustrate the growing maturity of self-healing polymer coatings as multifunctional materials bridging engineering, environmental, and biomedical applications. Full article

Metallogels, three-dimensional supramolecular networks formed through metal–ligand coordination, have emerged as a new generation of adaptive soft materials with promising biomedical potential. By integrating the structural stability and tuneable functionality of metal centres with the dynamic self-assembly of organic gelators, these systems exhibit exceptional mechanical strength, responsiveness, and multifunctionality. Recent studies demonstrate their diverse applications in drug delivery, anticancer therapy, antimicrobial and wound healing treatments, biosensing, bioimaging, and tissue engineering. Interestingly, the coordination of metal ions such as Ru(II), Zn(II), Fe(III), and lanthanides enables the creation of self-healing, thixotropic, and stimuli-responsive gels capable of controlled release and therapeutic action. Moreover, the incorporation of luminescent or redox-active metals adds optical and electronic properties suitable for diagnostic and monitoring purposes. This collection summarizes the most recent advances in the field, highlighting how rational molecular design and coordination chemistry contribute to the development of multifunctional, biocompatible, and responsive metallogels that bridge the gap between materials science and medicine. Full article

Silk fibroin (SF) has evolved from a traditional biopolymer to a leading regenerative medicine material. Its combination of mechanical strength, biocompatibility, tunable degradation, and molecular adaptability makes SF a unique matrix that is both bioactive and intelligent. Advances in hydrogel engineering have transformed SF from a passive scaffold into a smart, living hydrogel. These systems can instruct cell fate, sense microenvironmental signals, and deliver therapeutic signals as needed. By incorporating stem cells, progenitors, or engineered immune and microbial populations, SF hydrogels now serve as synthetic niches for organoid maturation and as adaptive implants for tissue regeneration. These platforms replicate extracellular matrix complexity and evolve with tissue, showing self-healing, shape-memory, and stimuli-responsive properties. Such features are redefining biomaterial–cell interactions. SF hydrogels are used for wound healing, musculoskeletal repair, neural and cardiac patches, and developing scalable organoid models for disease and drug research. Challenges remain in maintaining long-term cell viability, achieving clinical scalability, and meeting regulatory standards. This review explores how advances in SF engineering, synthetic biology, and organoid science are enabling SF-based smart living hydrogels in bridging the gap between research and clinical use. Full article

This article explores the concept of mindful solitude as both an antidote and antonym to loneliness, integrating Buddhist doctrinal insights with contemporary psychological research. While solitude is often conflated with isolation or loneliness, we argue that when chosen intentionally and cultivated mindfully, it becomes a space of healing, insight, and relational depth. Drawing from classical Buddhist texts, historical exemplars such as Shakyamuni and Milarepa, and modern scholarship, we trace the evolution of solitude within Buddhist traditions, highlighting its role in ethical transformation and meditative insight. We contrast this with secular mindfulness programs, noting their therapeutic benefits while acknowledging their divergence from traditional Buddhist ethics and soteriology. Through interdisciplinary analysis, we propose a framework in which mindfulness mediates the experience of solitude, fostering autonomy, inner-directedness, and meaningful solitary activities. This reframing positions solitude not as absence but as presence: an intentional engagement with the self that enhances emotional regulation and social connectedness. In an age marked by hyperconnectivity and rising loneliness, mindful solitude offers a counter-narrative: a spiritually and psychologically enriching state that supports wellbeing and compassionate re-engagement. By bridging Buddhist contemplative traditions with empirical psychological findings, this article affirms solitude as a vital condition for both personal and collective healing. Full article

In this Special Issue entitled Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications, 18 articles are brought together. The contributions illustrated the remarkable versatility of ceramics—from bioceramics that heal bone and fight infection, to solid electrolytes and multiferroics powering clean energy, and glass ceramics and zeolite composites safeguarding our environment. Articles on glazes, archaeological pottery, and innovative joining methods reminded us that ceramic science has bridged deep traditions and modern frontiers. Full article