Search Results (10,397)

Collagen implants in neurosurgery are widely used due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to support tissue regeneration, but their mechanical properties, such as low tensile strength and susceptibility to enzymatic degradation, remain challenging. Current technologies are improving these implants through cross-linking, synthetic reinforcements, and advanced manufacturing techniques such as 3D bioprinting to improve durability and predictability. Industry 4.0 is contributing to this by automating production, using data analytics and machine learning to optimize implant properties and ensure quality control. In Industry 5.0, the focus is shifting to personalization, enabling the creation of patient-specific implants through human–machine collaboration and advanced biofabrication. eHealth integrates digital monitoring systems, enabling real-time tracking of implant healing and performance to inform personalized care. Despite progress, challenges such as cost, material property variability, and scalability for mass production remain. The future lies in smart biomaterials, AI-driven design, and precision biofabrication, which could mean the possibility of creating more effective, accessible, and patient-specific collagen implants. The aim of this article is to examine the current state and determine the prospects for the development of mechanical properties of collagen implant used in neurosurgery towards Industry 4.0/5.0, including ML model. Full article

The present study examines the barriers that prevent cooling system flexibility from being optimized. In the context of an increasing reliance on renewable energy sources, the necessity for flexible energy utilization is becoming increasingly apparent. A survey and discussion groups were conducted with various stakeholders within the cooling value chain to obtain their experiences and insights regarding barriers to flexibilization. The findings point out that economic, technological, and regulatory barriers are the primary factors impeding the implementation of flexible solutions. In particular, high investment costs, complex technical implementation, a lack of information, and a complicated legal framework were identified as significant impediments. To enhance the flexibility of cooling systems, coordinated efforts are necessary to address these barriers. Practical examples, training, and the standardization and digitalization of processes could facilitate the widespread implementation of flexible cooling systems. Full article

Urban population growth is intensifying pressure on mobility systems, with road transportation contributing to environmental and sustainability challenges. Policymakers must navigate complex uncertainties in addressing rising mobility demand while pursuing sustainability goals. Advanced technologies offer promise, but their real-world effectiveness in urban contexts remains underexplored. This meta-review comprised three complementary studies: a broad analysis of sustainable mobility with Norwegian case studies, and systematic literature reviews on digital twins and Big Data/AI applications in urban mobility, covering the period of 2019–2024. Using structured criteria, we synthesised findings from 72 relevant articles to identify major trends, limitations, and opportunities. The findings show that mobility policies often prioritise technocentric solutions that unintentionally hinder sustainability goals. Digital twins show potential for traffic simulation, urban planning, and public engagement, while machine learning techniques support traffic forecasting and multimodal integration. However, persistent challenges include data interoperability, model validation, and insufficient stakeholder engagement. We identify a hierarchy of mobility modes where public transit and active mobility outperform private vehicles in sustainability and user satisfaction. Integrating electrification and automation and sharing models with data-informed governance can enhance urban liveability. We propose actionable pathways leveraging Big Data and AI, outlining the roles of various stakeholders in advancing sustainable urban mobility futures. Full article

This study proposes the SMR Smart Net-Zero City (SSNC) framework—a scalable model for achieving carbon neutrality by integrating Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), renewable energy sources, and sector coupling within a microgrid architecture. As deploying renewables alone would require economically and technically impractical energy storage systems, SMRs provide a reliable and flexible baseload power source. Sector coupling systems—such as hydrogen production and heat generation—enhance grid stability by absorbing surplus energy and supporting the decarbonization of non-electric sectors. The core contribution of this study lies in its real-time data emulation framework, which overcomes a critical limitation in the current energy landscape: the absence of operational data for future technologies such as SMRs and their coupled hydrogen production systems. As these technologies are still in the pre-commercial stage, direct physical integration and validation are not yet feasible. To address this, the researchers leveraged real-time data from an existing commercial microgrid, specifically focusing on the import of grid electricity during energy shortfalls and export during solar surpluses. These patterns were repurposed to simulate the real-time operational behavior of future SMRs (ProxySMR) and sector coupling loads. This physically grounded simulation approach enables high-fidelity approximation of unavailable technologies and introduces a novel methodology to characterize their dynamic response within operational contexts. A key element of the SSNC control logic is a day–night strategy: maximum SMR output and minimal hydrogen production at night, and minimal SMR output with maximum hydrogen production during the day—balancing supply and demand while maintaining high SMR utilization for economic efficiency. The SSNC testbed was validated through a seven-day continuous operation in Busan, demonstrating stable performance and approximately 75% SMR utilization, thereby supporting the feasibility of this proxy-based method. Importantly, to the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first publicly reported attempt to emulate the real-time dynamics of a net-zero city concept based on not-yet-commercial SMRs and sector coupling systems using live operational data. This simulation-based framework offers a forward-looking, data-driven pathway to inform the development and control of next-generation carbon-neutral energy systems. Full article

In the modern era of smart grids, integrating advanced Geographic Information Systems (GISs) with protection coordination functionalities is pivotal for enhancing the reliability and efficiency of distribution networks. This paper presents an implementation of a web-based distribution network GIS platform that seamlessly integrates distribution system feeder GIS monitoring with the system model file layout, fault current analysis, and coordination simulation functions. The system can provide scalable and accessible solutions for power utilities, ensuring that protective devices operate in a coordinated manner to minimize outage impacts and improve service restoration times. The proposed GIS platform has demonstrated significant improvements in fault management and relay coordination through extensive simulation and field testing. This research advances the capabilities of distribution network management and sets a foundation for future enhancements in smart grid technology. Full article

The accurate perception of visual stimuli in human–machine systems is crucial for improving system safety, usability, and task performance. The widespread adoption of digital technology has significantly increased the importance of visual interfaces and information. Therefore, it is essential to design visual interfaces and information with user characteristics in mind to ensure accurate perception of visual information. This study employed the Cognitive Perceptual Assessment for Driving (CPAD) to evaluate and compare gender differences in the ability to perceive visual signals within complex visual stimuli. The experimental setup included a computer with CPAD installed, along with a touch monitor, mouse, joystick, and keyboard. The participants included 11 male and 20 female students, with an average age of 22 for males and 21 for females. Prior to the experiment, participants were instructed to determine whether a signal stimulus was present: if a square, presented as the signal, was included in the visual stimulus, they moved the joystick to the left; otherwise, they moved it to the right. Each participant performed a total of 40 trials. The entire experiment was recorded on video to measure overall response times. The experiment measured the number of correct detections of signal presence, response times, the number of misses (failing to detect the signal when present), and false alarms (detecting the signal when absent). The analysis of experimental data revealed no significant differences in perceptual ability or response times for visual stimuli between genders. However, males demonstrated slightly superior perceptual ability and marginally shorter response times compared to females. Analyses of sensitivity and response bias, based on signal detection theory, also indicated a slightly higher perceptual ability in males. In conclusion, although these differences were not statistically significant, males demonstrated a slightly better perception ability for visual stimuli. The findings of this study can inform the design of information, user interfaces, and visual displays in human–machine systems, particularly in light of the recent trend of increased female participation in the industrial sector. Future research will focus on diverse types of visual information to further validate these findings. Full article

The construction industry is transitioning towards the circular economy, an approach that effectively reduces the industry’s environmental impact and promotes sustainability. However, realising the circular economy goal requires adequate information sharing among stakeholders and across the building lifecycle stages. This research examines the barriers that impede the information-sharing process in construction projects for the circular economy. This research adopts the framework of the information-sharing process, which suggests four essential components: context, content, people, and media. This study systematically searches and analyses the literature to identify and classify the information sharing barriers in the circular economy context, as well as their interaction. This study also conducts a case study to validate the information barrier framework and the findings. The findings suggest that information barriers are interlinked and require comprehensive solutions from the aspects of technology, organisation, and people, instead of single-aspect solutions. As this study provides insights into the systemic complexities of how information flows within the circular economy implementation system, it consequently contributes to the improvement of sustainable construction practices. Full article

The highway and bridge industry is facing persistent challenges related to the high turnover of technical personnel, which poses risks to the continuity and sustainability of infrastructure development. Although Geographic Information System (GIS) training has increasingly been advocated as a strategy to stabilize the workforce, its practical application remains relatively limited across China. Drawing on the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, this study examines whether GIS training is associated with lower turnover intention among technical staff, potentially through enhanced perceptions of career growth and reduced work-related anxiety. Based on 412 valid responses—primarily from technical personnel employed by major infrastructure enterprises such as regional subsidiaries of the China Communications Construction Group (CCCG) and China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC)—the study employs Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the proposed relationships. The findings indicate that GIS training is negatively associated with turnover intention, with career growth partially mediating this association. Additionally, work anxiety moderates the relationship, such that the link between GIS training and turnover intention appears weaker under higher levels of anxiety. This research contributes to bridging the gap between training practices and theoretical understanding, offering insights to inform workforce retention strategies in technology-intensive industries. Full article

Dynamic and Adaptive solar systems demonstrate a greater potential to enhance the satisfaction of occupants, in terms of indoor environment quality and the energy efficiency of the buildings, than conventional shading solutions. This study has evaluated Dynamic and Adaptive Photovoltaic Shading Systems (DAPVSSs) through a comprehensive analysis of six shading designs in which their energy production and the comfort of occupants were considered. Energy generation, thermal comfort, daylight, and glare control have been assessed in this study, considering multiple orientations throughout the seasons, and a variety of tools, such as Rhino 6.0, Grasshopper, ClimateStudio 2.1, and Ladybug, have been exploited for these purposes. The results showed that the prototypes that were geometrically more complex, designs 5 and 6 in particular, had approximately 485 kWh higher energy production and energy savings for cooling and 48% better glare control than the other simplified configurations while maintaining the minimum daylight as the threshold (min DF: 2%) due to adaptive and control methodologies. Design 6 demonstrated optimal balanced performance for all the aforementioned criteria, achieving 587 kWh/year energy production while maintaining the daylight factor within the 2.1–2.9% optimal range and ensuring visual comfort compliance during 94% of occupied hours. This research has established a framework that can be used to make well-informed design decisions that could balance energy production, occupants’ wellbeing, and architectural integration, while advancing sustainable building envelope technologies. Full article

For mineral exploration, an increasing number of geophysical instruments have adopted unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as their carrier platforms. The effective fusion of multi-modal geophysical information will be conducive to further enhancing the reliability of exploration results. However, the integration degree of UAVs and geophysical equipment is still low, and the advantages of UAVs as robots have not been fully exploited. In addition, the existing fusion methods are still difficult to use to establish the spatial distribution model of ore-bearing rock. Therefore, we reviewed the development status of UAVs and the geophysical instruments. We believe that only by integrating the system, designing the observation plan in accordance with the requirements of the fusion method, and treating the hardware part as an external extension of the algorithm, can high-matching data be provided for fusion. Subsequently, we analyzed the progress of the fusion methods, leading us to believe that the cross-dimensional and cross-abstract-level issues are major challenges in the algorithm aspect. Meanwhile, the fusion should be carried out simultaneously with the generation of the ore-bearing rock model, that is, to establish an integrated system of fusion and generation. It is hoped that this research can promote the development of UAV-borne multi-modal observation technology. Full article

Smart cities are technologically advanced urban environments where interconnected systems and data-driven technologies enhance public service delivery and quality of life. These cities rely on information and communication technologies, the Internet of Things, big data, cloud computing, and other Industry 4.0 tools to support efficient city management and foster citizen engagement. Often referred to as digital cities, they integrate intelligent infrastructures and real-time data analytics to improve mobility, security, and sustainability. Ubiquitous sensors, paired with Artificial Intelligence, enable cities to monitor infrastructure, respond to residents’ needs, and optimize urban conditions dynamically. Given the increasing significance of Industry 4.0 in urban development, this study adopts a bibliometric approach to systematically review the application of these technologies within smart cities. Utilizing major academic databases such as Scopus and Web of Science the research aims to identify the primary Industry 4.0 technologies implemented in smart cities, assess their impact on infrastructure, economic systems, and urban communities, and explore the challenges and benefits associated with their integration. The bibliometric analysis included publications from 2016 to 2023, since the emergence of urban researchers’ interest in the technologies of the new industrial revolution. The task is to contribute to a deeper understanding of how smart cities evolve through the adoption of advanced technological frameworks. Research indicates that IoT and AI are the most commonly used tools in urban spaces, particularly in smart mobility and smart environments. Full article

Prognostic and Health Management (PHM) strategies are gaining increasingly more traction in almost every field of engineering, offering stakeholders advanced capabilities in system monitoring, anomaly detection, and predictive maintenance. Primary flight control actuators are safety-critical elements within aircraft flight control systems (FCSs), and currently, they are mainly based on Electro-Hydraulic Actuators (EHAs) or Electro-Hydrostatic Actuators (EHSAs). Despite the widespread diffusion of PHM methodologies, the application of these technologies for EHAs is still somewhat limited, and the available information is often restricted to the industrial sector. To fill this gap, this paper provides an in-depth analysis of state-of-the-art EHA PHM strategies for aerospace applications, as well as their limitations and further developments through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR). An objective and clear methodology, combined with the use of attractive and informative graphics, guides the reader towards a thorough investigation of the state of the art, as well as the challenges in the field that limit a wider implementation. It is deemed that the information presented in this review will be useful for new researchers and industry engineers as it provides indications for conducting research in this specific and still not very investigated sector. Full article

Smart living is strongly promoted to enhance the quality of life via the application of innovative solutions, and this is driven by domain specialists and policymakers, including designers, urban planners, computer engineers, and property developers. Nonetheless, the actual user, whose views ought to be considered during the design and development of smart living systems, has received little attention. Thus, this study aims to identify and examine the critical smart functions to achieve smart living in smart buildings based on occupants’ perceptions. The aim is achieved using a sequential quantitative research method involving a literature review and 221 valid survey data gathered from a case of a smart student residence in Hong Kong. The method is further integrated with descriptive statistics, the Kruskal–Walli’s test, and the criticality test. The results were validated via a post-survey with related experts. Twenty-six critical smart functions for smart living were revealed, with the top three including the ability to protect personal data and information privacy, provide real-time safety and security, and the ability to be responsive to users’ needs. A need was discovered to consider the context of buildings during the design of smart living systems, and the recommendation is for professionals to understand the kind of digital technology to be integrated into a building by strongly considering the context of the building and how smart living will be achieved within it based on users’ perceptions. The study provides valuable insights into the occupants’ perceptions of critical smart features/functions for policymakers and practitioners to consider in the construction of smart living systems, specifically students’ smart buildings. This study contributes to knowledge by identifying the critical smart functions to achieve smart living based on occupants’ perceptions of smart living by considering the specific context of a smart student building facility constructed in Hong Kong. Full article

With the increasing deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in indoor environments, the demand for high-precision six-degrees-of-freedom (6-DoF) localization has grown significantly. Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology has emerged as a key enabler for indoor UAV navigation due to its robustness against multipath effects and high-accuracy ranging capabilities. However, conventional UWB-based systems primarily rely on range measurements, operate at low measurement frequencies, and are incapable of providing attitude information. This paper proposes a tightly coupled error-state extended Kalman filter (TC–ESKF)-based UWB/inertial measurement unit (IMU) fusion framework. To address the challenge of initial state acquisition, a weighted nonlinear least squares (WNLS)-based initialization algorithm is proposed to rapidly estimate the UAV’s initial position and attitude under static conditions. During dynamic navigation, the system integrates time-difference-of-arrival (TDOA) and angle-of-arrival (AOA) measurements obtained from the UWB module to refine the state estimates, thereby enhancing both positioning accuracy and attitude stability. The proposed system is evaluated through simulations and real-world indoor flight experiments. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm outperforms representative fusion algorithms in 3D positioning and yaw estimation accuracy. Full article

Plastic pollution is a growing environmental and social concern, particularly in Southeast Asia, where urban rivers serve as key pathways for transporting waste to marine environments. This scoping review examines 110 peer-reviewed studies to understand how plastic pollution in waterways is being researched, addressed, and reconceptualized. Drawing from the literature across environmental science, technology, and social studies, we identify four interconnected areas of focus: urban pollution pathways, innovations in monitoring and methods, community-based interventions, and interdisciplinary perspectives. Our analysis combines qualitative synthesis with visual mapping techniques, including keyword co-occurrence networks, to explore how real-time tools, such as IoT sensors, multi-sensor systems, and geospatial technologies, are transforming the ways plastic waste is tracked and analyzed. The review also considers the growing use of novel theoretical frameworks, such as post-phenomenology and ecological materialism, to better understand the role of plastics as both pollutants and ecological agents. Despite progress, the literature reveals persistent gaps in longitudinal studies, regional representation, and policy translation, particularly across the Global South. We emphasize the value of participatory models and community-led research in bridging these gaps and advancing more inclusive and responsive solutions. These insights inform the development of plastic tracker technologies currently being piloted in Vietnam and contribute to broader sustainability goals, including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 14 (Life Below Water). Full article