Search Results (877)

Background: Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1) remains a major global health challenge. Despite advances in antiretroviral therapy, new prevention strategies are needed, particularly topical microbicides capable of blocking the earliest steps of viral entry. HIV-1 attachment relies on interactions with heparan sulfate proteoglycans on host cell surfaces; therefore, sulfated heparan-mimetic polymers have been explored as antiviral agents. In this context, sulfated chitosan microparticles are designed to mimic natural glycosaminoglycan receptors, acting as biomimetic decoys that prevent viral attachment and entry. Methods: Low-molecular-weight sulfated chitosan (LMW Chi-S) microparticles were synthesized and characterized (SEM, EDS, DLS, FTIR) following US Patent No. 11,246,839 B2. Their antiviral activity was evaluated by incubating the microparticles with high-viral-load HIV-1-positive plasma (~3.5 × 10⁶ copies/mL) to enable viral binding and removal by pull-down. The performance of the synthesized Chi-S microparticles was compared with established heparinoid controls, including soluble heparin and heparin microparticles. Results: Chi-S microparticles exhibited stronger virus-binding and neutralizing capacity than all heparinoid comparators, achieving up to 70% reduction in viral load relative to untreated HIV-1 plasma. In comparison, soluble heparin and heparin microparticles reduced viral load by approximately 53% and 60%, respectively. Subsequent evaluation across multiple tested concentrations confirmed a consistent antiviral effect, indicating that the synthesized Chi-S microparticles maintain robust virus–particle interactions throughout the concentration range examined. Conclusions: These findings demonstrate that LMW Chi-S microparticles possess potent antiviral properties and outperform classical heparinoid materials, supporting their potential application as topical microbicides targeting early HIV-1 entry mechanisms. Full article

Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) is increasingly recognized as a valuable imaging modality in structural heart interventions, offering high-resolution, real-time visualization from within the cardiac chambers. Originally developed for electrophysiologic procedures, ICE has expanded its use across a broad spectrum of structural interventions, including atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure, left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO), transseptal puncture guidance, transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER), balloon mitral valvuloplasty, and both mitral and tricuspid valve therapies. This review outlines the current role and technical principles of ICE, with an emphasis on catheter design, image acquisition protocols, and the emerging potential of 3D ICE. Comparisons with transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and fluoroscopy are discussed, highlighting ICE’s ability to support minimally invasive, sedation-sparing procedures while maintaining procedural precision. We provide a focused analysis of ICE-guided applications in specific clinical scenarios, emphasizing its role in anatomical assessment, device navigation, and intra-procedural monitoring. Data from recent clinical studies and registries are reviewed to assess safety, feasibility, and outcomes. Practical considerations including operator learning curve, workflow integration, and limitations such as cost and field of view are also addressed. Lastly, we explore future directions including advanced 3D imaging, fusion imaging, artificial intelligence integration, and robotic catheter systems. Full article

This paper reports part of the research results carried out within the National Centre for Sustainable Mobility (MOST—CN4)—Spoke 5 “Light Vehicle and Active Mobility”—funded by the Italian National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). Specifically, it presents the design of a bicycle frame based on the pursuit of maximum modularity and adaptability. The research investigates multi-level modularity as a strategic design lever to improve flexibility, usability, and production efficiency in light vehicles. A design-driven and interdisciplinary methodology combined a systematic analysis of 76 patents with a qualitative cross-comparison of 15 case-study products and collaborative co-design activities involving domain experts. The resulting insights informed the development of a modular bike frame prototype, enabling evaluation of user-centered adaptability, production-oriented modularity, and functional transformations such as e-bike integration and cargo configurations. Findings provide evidence-based, qualitative insights and practical design exploration for modular light vehicle development, offering an operational framework and laying the groundwork for a structured, generalized framework to guide future research and industrial applications. Full article

The economic and legal framework is transforming with the change in the globalization paradigm, accompanied by structural and quantitative changes in intellectual property assessment. This study aims to justify commercialization and analyze the innovation management of intellectual property as a fundamental socio-economic institution and improve theoretical perspectives on its current development processes. This study surveyed 100 companies to identify the factors determining intellectual property use and its commercialization. The analysis of the structure of intellectual property revealed a 14% decrease in trademark applications and a 2% increase in patent applications. This research highlights the specifics of intellectual property generation through machine learning: mass creation of new objects, reduction in innovation product development cycles, increased accuracy of market demand forecasting, and adaptive problem solving. An analysis of budget expenditures on intellectual property in the EU based on the specific value of patent activity identified five classification groups (ranging from 0.17 to 0.23% to 1.23–2.26% of GDP), each exhibiting different economic activities and innovation intensity. Full article

Pharmaceutical cocrystals are a well-established class of solid-state forms that can modulate the solubility, dissolution, stability, and bioavailability of active pharmaceutical ingredients without altering their molecular identity. Although traditional oral formulations have demonstrated translational potential, recent research has emphasized the importance of integrating cocrystals into emerging drug-delivery technologies. This review systematically analyzes recent advances in conventional and innovative cocrystal-based platforms, critically evaluating their therapeutic relevance. A comprehensive literature search was conducted, focusing on publications from the last decade, with emphasis on studies from 2020 to 2025, including peer-reviewed articles, patents, and regulatory documents. Evidence was organized into traditional oral, inhalable, intranasal, and transdermal formulations, followed by emerging platforms such as 3D printing, nano-cocrystals, and microneedles. Case studies and preclinical/clinical data were critically assessed to identify strengths, limitations, and future directions. Advancements in formulation science and novel delivery technologies are allowing pharmaceutical cocrystals to transition from laboratory innovations to clinical applications. Despite challenges in scalability, stability, and regulatory clarity, the application of cocrystals into emerging platforms highlights their potential as transformative tools in next-generation therapeutics. Full article

This research paper proposes a solution to reduce CO₂ emissions from a spark ignition engine’s exhaust gases by installing a filtration system on the vehicle’s exhaust pipe. The analyzed filtration system was not patented and was in the testing stage. Tests will also be carried out on the stand. The tested system can be used to reduce CO₂ levels in automotive exhaust gases and for static applications (generators, internal combustion engine test stands, fossil fuel power generation systems). The need for a system to reduce pollutant emissions emerged with the average age in Europe. In proper conditions, some vehicles can use this type of filtration system. The tested vehicle is a vehicle (produced in 2009) equipped with a 75HP Spark Ignition Engine. The CO₂ filtration system consists of a container containing a reactive aqueous solution comprising water, CaO, and MgO. Four tests were performed: the first without a filter, and the other three with the filter placed at different distances from the exhaust pipe end to the reactive solution surface. The tests consisted of evaluating the exhaust gases from the cold start of the engine and running (idle engine speed) until the engine reached the optimal operating temperature. The test procedure involved saving the data collected by the analyzer every 10 s for each of the four tests performed (the duration of a test was 1050 s). The first test (No. 1) was performed without the use of the filtering system. Tests 2, 3, and 4 were carried out using the filtering system and changing the distance between the exhaust gases’ outlet point and the surface of the aqueous substance. All tests were carried out under similar conditions. Data specific to the test of engines were collected—emissions (CO₂, CO, NO_x), ambient temperature, and exhaust temperature. The tests were analyzed and compared, and the highest CO₂ reductions without increases in CO or NO_x were observed in Tests 3 and 4. Based on the detailed analysis of the values obtained from the four tests, the system was efficient. The tests will continue on experimental engines from test stands, to develop a prototype filter for primarily static applications with internal combustion engines: test stands for engines and generators, and, after homologation, directly on vehicles. The paper aims to partially solve an important problem—reducing the level of CO₂ from the exhaust gases. The presented solution may have applicability in the automotive industry but is also feasible for static applications. Another objective is to reduce emissions from older vehicles, which are widespread in certain regions of Europe and worldwide. Full article

This study examines how green credit policies, specifically the green credit guidelines (GCGs) implemented in 2012, influence corporate sustainable innovation. This study employs a quasi-natural experiment approach, utilizing data from Chinese listed companies between 2005 and 2023, to examine the differential impact of the GCGs on high-polluting enterprises versus energy-efficient enterprises. The study uses a Difference-in-Differences (DID) methodology to explore how policy-induced changes in financing conditions affect firms’ innovation behaviors, particularly in terms of green patent applications. This study uses a mechanism to understand the role of R&D investment and access to long-term financing in driving these changes. And this study considers heterogeneity across firm ownership types and industry competition to investigate the varying effects of the GCGs. By identifying the causal pathways through which green credit policies influence innovation, this study contributes to the understanding of how environmental policies shape corporate behavior and innovation outcomes. Full article

Creatine monohydrate is known for its moderate solubility (13 g/L at 25 °C), which limits the feasibility of producing its fast-dissolving forms. Overcoming this limitation is possible through the application of technological approaches, the overview of which is presented in this work, including chemical modification, micronization, granulation, amorphization, formation of solid dispersions, and encapsulation. The results showed the predominance of chemical methods (about 60% of the analyzed patents). At the same time, the use of physical methods and the combination of several technologies can increase both the dissolution rate and the solubility of creatine monohydrate while maintaining its stability. This makes these approaches the most promising for the development of production technology for fast-dissolving forms. Full article

Procyanidins, a class of substances widely distributed in nature, have attracted the attention of the scientific community due to their bioactive properties, especially with regard to human health. This review is based on an extensive examination of peer-reviewed literature, patents, and clinical trial reports published between 2005 and 2025. From an initial pool of more than 300 documents, 283 studies were selected according to criteria of scientific rigor, methodological clarity, and relevance to the research objectives. A literature search was performed using PubMed, PubChem, Google Scholar, Scopus and ResearchGate employing keywords such as Procyanidins, chemical structure, extraction, and health effects. This article provides a comprehensive overview of current methods for obtaining these compounds, which include both natural sources and synthetic approaches. It provides a concise summary of the molecular structure of procyanidins and emphasizes the importance of understanding their conformational features for predicting biological activity. The challenges of establishing correlations between the structural features of procyanidins and their properties are described. In addition, this article explores the many potential applications of these compounds, spanning both biochemistry and the field of design and synthesis of novel materials. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of Procyanidins, focusing on their geometrical conformation analysis through advanced NMR spectroscopy techniques including homonuclear correlation (COSY, TOCSY), heteronuclear one-bond (HSQC, HMQC), multiple-bond (HMBC) experiments, and through-space correlation (NOESY) in conjunction with various extraction methodologies. Full article

Solar energy enhances the energy and environmental performance of coal gasification by lowering carbon emissions and increasing the yield and quality of synthesis gas. This patent review surveys recent global advances in solar thermochemical reactors for coal gasification, focusing on key innovations disclosed in patent applications and grants, with particular attention to technologies that improve process efficiency and sustainability. The novelty of the review is that unlike most patent reviews that focus primarily on statistical indicators such as application counts, geography, and classification, this work integrates qualitative analysis of specific technical solutions alongside statistical evaluation. This combined approach enables a deeper assessment of technological maturity and practical applicability. Fifteen patents from different countries were reviewed. The largest number (8, 53%) belongs to the United States. China has the second place with 4 (27%). The remaining countries (the EU, Korea, and Russia) hold 1 patent (7% each). The present work emphasises the technological and engineering solutions associated with the integration of solar energy into gasification processes. The author’s design is free of the disadvantages of its counterparts and is a simplified design with a high degree of adaptability to various types of fuel, including brown coal, biomass, and other carbon-containing materials. Full article

Schinus molle L. Essential Oil (SMEO) displays a rich scientific literature, including preliminary studies on its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. This review seeks to systematically analyze the influence of the chemotype diversity of SMEO on its biological and pharmaceutical applications, with a particular focus on antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities, and to identify research gaps for effective pharmaceutical exploitation. The article selection process was carried out in June 2025 and focused on the PubMed, Scopus, and MDPI databases, producing 176 articles, of which 51 were selected for this review. The present systematic review included the articles published in English and Spanish, with no limitations on the year of publication; data from patent and symposium abstracts were excluded. A qualitative assessment of the selected articles was carried out, including a TRL (Technology Readiness Level) analysis. The results were summarized using hierarchical cluster analysis and a strategic patent search tree, and were processed into tables, graphs, and a heat map, which enabled discussions and proposals for new research trends to be developed. The chemical composition varies significantly depending on the production area, climatic conditions, and seasonality, but the presence of two prevalent chemotypes is evident, α-phellandrene and sabinene, respectively. Data on antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activity were promising, and some formulation prototypes are available, pointing toward the potential development of pharmaceutical and veterinary products. The use of nanotechnology appears to be crucial for the potential pharmaceutical application of SMEO, but further studies are needed. Specifically, further investigation of the properties of SMEO or its components in wound healing applications could represent a new research trend. This review highlights the state of the art of pharmacological research on SMEO and suggests future research directions with a view to develop formulations suitable for safety and efficacy improvements. Full article

The recent rise of trade protectionism has complicated the relationship between trade and innovation in some countries. This paper evaluates the impact of U.S. export control on the innovation performance of Chinese manufacturing listed firms. Based on firm-level invention patent data from 2015 to 2023, we find that firms subject to export control substantially expand their patent application activities. However, the quantitative expansion coincides with a deterioration in patent quality, as evidenced by the fast-track granted rate. Further analysis suggests that the divergence between firms’ internal innovation preferences, as reflected in management’s innovation awareness, knowledge width and technological trajectory, and their external R&D investment, underlies the innovation quantity–quality tension. Moreover, the decline in innovation quality is primarily concentrated in technological fields not favored by Chinese industrial policy and among state-owned enterprises, suggesting strategic balancing of innovation decisions in response to government intervention. This study provides further insights into the comprehensive impact of trade shock on innovation and contributes to the literature on the potential technological externalities of the U.S.–China trade conflict. Full article

Background/Objectives: Reducing the dietary intake of sugar and salt is considered a key strategy for preventing the onset and progression of lifestyle-related diseases. However, these dietary interventions often compromise the taste of foods, which can reduce patient satisfaction. To address this challenge, we focused on novel food-derived particles (NFPs; patent number P7383867) consisting of lipid, α-cyclodextrin, and xanthan gum formulated as an emulsion with excellent retention and diffusion properties. Methods: Here, we investigated the effects of NFPs on the taste responses of mice. Results: In two-bottle preference tests (n = 4–6), NFPs enhanced preferences for sweet and salty stimuli in behavioral tests (one-way ANOVA, p < 0.05) and increased the responses of the chorda tympani nerve (n = 6–8) to sweet and salty stimuli (two-way ANOVA, main treatment effect p < 0.05), but had no effect on the responses to sour, bitter, or umami stimuli. Conclusion: These findings suggest that NFPs may enhance peripheral taste responses to sweet and salty flavors, thereby helping maintain the palatability of foods with reduced sugar or salt content. Such modulation may have broad applications in improving the acceptability of therapeutic or restricted diets and supporting both disease management and prevention, including lifestyle-related diseases, kidney disease, and other conditions requiring dietary restriction and may offer translational relevance for human dietary interventions. Full article

This study investigates the impact of network structural characteristics on sustainable innovation performance within regional collaborative networks in China’s artificial intelligence (AI) industry. Provincial-level innovation networks were constructed and analyzed using social network analysis to trace their evolutionary pathways using patent application data from 2010 to 2024. The findings reveal that China’s AI innovation network has developed into a multi-tiered, polycentric structure with Beijing as the primary hub. An inverted U-shaped relationship was identified between network centrality, structural holes, and regional collaborative innovation performance at various developmental stages. The external institutional environment, particularly through government R&D subsidies and intellectual property protection, plays a significant moderating role, generally diminishing the effect of centrality while enhancing that of structural holes during the rapid expansion phase. Regional heterogeneity analyses confirmed these patterns in eastern, central, and western China, whereas in the northeast, only centrality showed a significant association with performance. By integrating network location theory with an institutional perspective, this study offers a dual-perspective framework for understanding how sustainable innovation ecosystems can be fostered through network governance and policy interventions. The results provide evidence-based policy implications aimed at enhancing collaborative innovation capacity, mitigating regional disparities, and advancing sustainable development. Full article

Composite bonded anchors represent an innovative solution in the field of fastening technology, finding wide application in construction and civil engineering. This article presents a comprehensive review of the available scientific literature, a market analysis and a survey of patent databases related to this issue. Key aspects of the design, mechanical properties and durability of composite bonded anchors under various operating conditions are discussed. Special attention was paid to comparing composite solutions with traditional anchoring systems, highlighting their advantages and limitations. The results presented indicate a growing interest in this technology, which is due to both its high strength, corrosion resistance and applicability to lightweight structures. In conclusion, the article identifies key directions for further research and potential areas for the development of composite bonded anchors in the context of modern engineering challenges. Full article