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Keywords = smart stimulus-responsive

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31 pages, 1053 KB  
Article
The Paradox of AI Knowledge: A Blockchain-Based Approach to Decentralized Governance in Chinese New Media Industry
by Jing Wu and Yaoyi Cai
Future Internet 2025, 17(10), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/fi17100479 - 20 Oct 2025
Viewed by 339
Abstract
AI text-to-video systems, such as OpenAI’s Sora, promise substantial efficiency gains in media production but also pose risks of biased outputs, opaque optimization, and deceptive content. Using the Orientation–Stimulus–Orientation–Response (O-S-O-R) model, we conduct an empirical study with 209 Chinese new media professionals and [...] Read more.
AI text-to-video systems, such as OpenAI’s Sora, promise substantial efficiency gains in media production but also pose risks of biased outputs, opaque optimization, and deceptive content. Using the Orientation–Stimulus–Orientation–Response (O-S-O-R) model, we conduct an empirical study with 209 Chinese new media professionals and employ structural equation modeling to examine how information elaboration relates to AI knowledge, perceptions, and adoption intentions. Our findings reveal a knowledge paradox: higher objective AI knowledge negatively moderates elaboration, suggesting that centralized information ecosystems can misguide even well-informed practitioners. Building on these behavioral insights, we propose a blockchain-based governance framework that operationalizes five mechanisms to enhance oversight and trust while maintaining efficiency: Expert Assessment DAOs, Community Validation DAOs, real-time algorithm monitoring, professional integrity protection, and cross-border coordination. While our study focuses on China’s substantial new media market, the observed patterns and design principles generalize to global contexts. This work contributes empirical grounding for Web3-enabled AI governance, specifies implementable smart-contract patterns for multi-stakeholder validation and incentives, and outlines a research agenda spanning longitudinal, cross-cultural, and implementation studies. Full article
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17 pages, 3340 KB  
Article
pH-Responsive Modified Dextran Nanogel for Liver Targeted Doxorubicin Delivery
by Amin Raeisi, Mohammad Doroudian, Banafsheh Rastegari, Soliman Mohammadi-Samani, Abbas Behzad-Behbahani and Fatemeh Farjadian
Gels 2025, 11(10), 784; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11100784 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 485
Abstract
A key obstacle to the efficacy of cancer drugs is the safe delivery of the drugs to the target site of the disease. Recent advances in nanomedicine have introduced smart hydrogel nanoparticles as promising, efficient, secure, and stimulus-responsive drug carriers. Herein, a bio-safe [...] Read more.
A key obstacle to the efficacy of cancer drugs is the safe delivery of the drugs to the target site of the disease. Recent advances in nanomedicine have introduced smart hydrogel nanoparticles as promising, efficient, secure, and stimulus-responsive drug carriers. Herein, a bio-safe pH-sensitive nanohydrogel (NG) made of polyaminoethyl methacrylamide (AEMA)-grafted dextran was used as a carrier for liver-targeted doxorubicin (DOX) delivery. Lactobionate (SL) residue was conjugated to the prepared NG as a targeting agent, and DOX was also conjugated via Schiff base linkage. The synthesized structure was analyzed using 1HNMR, FT-IR, and size exclusion chromatography. DOX release was confirmed through UV-Vis spectroscopy. A pH-responsive manner in the DOX release profile was observed in a simulated medium with pH changes. In vitro toxicity assessment was performed in HepG2 and L929 cell lines, which have demonstrated the biosafety of the prepared hydrogel and its high effectiveness as an anticancer drug delivery system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Research on Medical Hydrogels)
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41 pages, 2871 KB  
Review
Inflammation-Responsive Hydrogels in Perioperative Pain and Wound Management: Design Strategies and Emerging Potential
by Young Eun Moon, Jin-Oh Jeong and Hoon Choi
Gels 2025, 11(9), 691; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11090691 - 1 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1826
Abstract
Surgical procedures trigger dynamic inflammatory responses that influence postoperative pain, wound healing, and long-term outcomes. Conventional therapies rely on the systemic delivery of anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents, which often lack spatiotemporal precision and carry significant side effects. Inflammation-responsive hydrogels offer a promising alternative [...] Read more.
Surgical procedures trigger dynamic inflammatory responses that influence postoperative pain, wound healing, and long-term outcomes. Conventional therapies rely on the systemic delivery of anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents, which often lack spatiotemporal precision and carry significant side effects. Inflammation-responsive hydrogels offer a promising alternative by enabling localized, stimulus-adaptive drug release aligned with the evolving biochemical milieu of surgical wounds. These smart biomaterials respond to endogenous triggers, such as reactive oxygen species, acidic pH, and proteolytic enzymes, allowing precise modulation of inflammation and tissue repair. This narrative review outlines the pathophysiological features of perioperative inflammation and the design principles of responsive hydrogel systems, including pH-, reactive oxygen species-, enzyme-sensitive, and multi-stimuli platforms. We evaluated the integration of key payloads, NSAIDs, corticosteroids, α2-adrenergic agonists, and biologics, highlighting their therapeutic synergy and translational relevance. Preclinical studies across soft tissue, orthopedic, thoracic, and abdominal models have demonstrated the efficacy of these systems in modulating immune responses, reducing pain, and enhancing regeneration. Despite these encouraging results, challenges remain, including trigger fidelity, surgical compatibility, and regulatory readiness. Future advances in biosensor integration, logic-based design, and artificial intelligence-guided formulation may accelerate clinical translation. Inflammation-responsive hydrogels represent a transformative strategy for precise perioperative care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Application of Biofunctional Hydrogels)
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45 pages, 2298 KB  
Review
Advances in the Application of Graphene and Its Derivatives in Drug Delivery Systems
by Changzhou Jin, Huishan Zheng and Jianmin Chen
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(9), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18091245 - 22 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1457
Abstract
Graphene, owing to its exceptionally high specific surface area, abundant surface functional groups, and outstanding biocompatibility, exhibits tremendous potential in the development of nanodrug delivery systems. This review systematically outlines the latest research advancements regarding graphene and its derivatives in drug loading, targeted [...] Read more.
Graphene, owing to its exceptionally high specific surface area, abundant surface functional groups, and outstanding biocompatibility, exhibits tremendous potential in the development of nanodrug delivery systems. This review systematically outlines the latest research advancements regarding graphene and its derivatives in drug loading, targeted delivery, and smart release. It covers delivery strategies and mechanisms for various types of drugs, including small molecules and macromolecules, with a particular emphasis on their applications in major diseases such as cancer, neurological disorders, and infection control. The article also discusses stimulus-responsive release mechanisms, such as pH-responsiveness and photothermal responsiveness, and highlights the critical role of surface functionalization of graphene and its derivatives in enhancing therapeutic efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. Furthermore, the review evaluates key challenges to the clinical translation of graphene-based materials, including safety, toxicity, and metabolic uncertainties. It points out that future research should focus on integrating structural modulation of materials with biological behavior to construct intelligent nanoplatforms featuring biodegradability, low immunogenicity, and precise therapeutic targeting. The aim of this paper is to provide theoretical insights and technical guidance for the customized design and precision medicine applications of graphene and its derivative-based drug delivery systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Technology)
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35 pages, 1131 KB  
Article
Sustainable Destination Management in Luxury Tourism: Balancing Economic Development and Environmental Responsibility
by Hilmi Birinci, Ismet Esenyel and Hayford Asare Obeng
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6815; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156815 - 27 Jul 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1560
Abstract
This study applied the Stimulus–Organism–Response Theory to investigate the impact of sustainable destination management on perceived luxury service quality, taking into account the mediating role of perceived environmental responsibility and the moderating effect of tourist environmental awareness. Data were obtained from 541 tourists [...] Read more.
This study applied the Stimulus–Organism–Response Theory to investigate the impact of sustainable destination management on perceived luxury service quality, taking into account the mediating role of perceived environmental responsibility and the moderating effect of tourist environmental awareness. Data were obtained from 541 tourists in Northern Cyprus, and the analysis was conducted using Herman’s single-factor test in SPSS version 23 and partial least squares structural equation modeling in SmartPLS version 4.1.1.2. The study’s results revealed a significant positive influence of sustainable destination management on both perceived luxury service quality and environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the study showed a significant positive relationship between perceived environmental responsibility and perceived luxury service quality. Additionally, tourist environmental consciousness was found to be an important influencing factor in perceived luxury service quality. The mediating role of perceived environmental responsibility was revealed to be a significant partial mediator between sustainable destination management and perceived luxury service quality pathways. Although environmental awareness revealed an insignificant moderating influence on the relationship between sustainable destination management and perceived luxury service quality, it indicated a negative significant moderating influence on the relationship between perceived environmental responsibility and perceived luxury service quality. The study highlights how assessments of luxury services are contingent upon perceived environmental responsibility through sustainable destination activities. Emphasizing both academic and management perspectives, it encourages future research to explore broader psychological and contextual factors. Therefore, it underscores the strategic necessity of sustainability in enhancing the luxury tourism experience. Full article
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15 pages, 3980 KB  
Article
Four-Dimensional-Printed Woven Metamaterials for Vibration Reduction and Energy Absorption in Aircraft Landing Gear
by Xiong Wang, Changliang Lin, Liang Li, Yang Lu, Xizhe Zhu and Wenjie Wang
Materials 2025, 18(14), 3371; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18143371 - 18 Jul 2025
Viewed by 702
Abstract
Addressing the urgent need for lightweight and reusable energy-absorbing materials in aviation impact resistance, this study introduces an innovative multi-directional braided metamaterial design enabled by 4D printing technology. This approach overcomes the dual challenges of intricate manufacturing processes and the limited functionality inherent [...] Read more.
Addressing the urgent need for lightweight and reusable energy-absorbing materials in aviation impact resistance, this study introduces an innovative multi-directional braided metamaterial design enabled by 4D printing technology. This approach overcomes the dual challenges of intricate manufacturing processes and the limited functionality inherent to traditional textile preforms. Six distinct braided structural units (types 1–6) were devised based on periodic trigonometric functions (Y = A sin(12πX)), and integrated with shape memory polylactic acid (SMP-PLA), thereby achieving a synergistic combination of topological architecture and adaptive response characteristics. Compression tests reveal that reducing strip density to 50–25% (as in types 1–3) markedly enhances energy absorption performance, achieving a maximum specific energy absorption of 3.3 J/g. Three-point bending tests further demonstrate that the yarn amplitude parameter A is inversely correlated with load-bearing capacity; for instance, the type 1 structure (A = 3) withstands a maximum load stress of 8 MPa, representing a 100% increase compared to the type 2 structure (A = 4.5). A multi-branch viscoelastic constitutive model elucidates the temperature-dependent stress relaxation behavior during the glass–rubber phase transition and clarifies the relaxation time conversion mechanism governed by the Williams–Landel–Ferry (WLF) and Arrhenius equations. Experimental results further confirm the shape memory effect, with the type 3 structure fully recovering its original shape within 3 s under thermal stimulation at 80 °C, thus addressing the non-reusability issue of conventional energy-absorbing structures. This work establishes a new paradigm for the design of impact-resistant aviation components, particularly in the context of anti-collision structures and reusable energy absorption systems for eVTOL aircraft. Future research should further investigate the regulation of multi-stimulus response behaviors and microstructural optimization to advance the engineering application of smart textile metamaterials in aviation protection systems. Full article
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16 pages, 2914 KB  
Article
Designing Polymeric Multifunctional Nanogels for Photothermal Inactivation: Exploiting Conjugate Polymers and Thermoresponsive Platforms
by Ignacio Velzi, Edith Ines Yslas and Maria Molina
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(7), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17070827 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 581
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Photothermal therapy (PTT) is an emerging minimally invasive strategy in biomedicine that converts near-infrared (NIR) light into localized heat for the targeted inactivation of pathogens and tumor cells. Methods and Results: In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Photothermal therapy (PTT) is an emerging minimally invasive strategy in biomedicine that converts near-infrared (NIR) light into localized heat for the targeted inactivation of pathogens and tumor cells. Methods and Results: In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of thermoresponsive nanogels composed of poly (N-isopropylacrylamide-co-N-isopropylmethylacrylamide) (PNIPAM-co-PNIPMAM) semi-interpenetrated with polypyrrole (PPy), yielding monodisperse particles of 377 nm diameter. Spectroscopic analyses—including 1H-NMR, FTIR, and UV-Vis—confirmed successful copolymer formation and PPy incorporation, while TEM images revealed uniform spherical morphology. Differential scanning calorimetry established a volumetric phase transition temperature of 38.4 °C, and photothermal assays demonstrated a ΔT ≈ 10 °C upon 10 min of 850 nm NIR irradiation. In vitro antimicrobial activity tests against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 15692) showed a dose-time-dependent reduction in bacterial viability, with up to 4 log CFU/mL. Additionally, gentamicin-loaded nanogels achieved 38.7% encapsulation efficiency and exhibited stimulus-responsive drug release exceeding 75% under NIR irradiation. Conclusions: Combined photothermal and antibiotic therapy yielded augmented bacterial killing, underscoring the potential of PPy-interpenetrated nanogels as smart, dual-mode antimicrobials. Full article
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29 pages, 3796 KB  
Perspective
Integrated Perspective on Functional Organic Electrochemical Transistors and Biosensors in Implantable Drug Delivery Systems
by Xiao-Le Han, Tao Zhou, Jian-Ming Xu, Shu-Feng Zhang, Ye-Zhou Hu and Yi Liu
Chemosensors 2025, 13(6), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors13060215 - 11 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2979
Abstract
Although traditional drug delivery methods are widely used in clinical practice, their inherent limitations often compromise therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, the development of more precise and efficient drug delivery systems is essential to enhance treatment outcomes and reduce adverse effects. Implantable drug delivery systems [...] Read more.
Although traditional drug delivery methods are widely used in clinical practice, their inherent limitations often compromise therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, the development of more precise and efficient drug delivery systems is essential to enhance treatment outcomes and reduce adverse effects. Implantable drug delivery systems (IDDSs) represent intelligent platforms capable of autonomously regulating drug release in response to a patient’s physiological state. By enabling controlled release and personalized dosing, IDDSs have been widely applied in the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes and cancer. With ongoing technological advancements, modern IDDSs must meet increasing demands for both precision delivery and real-time physiological monitoring. In this context, organic electrochemical transistor (OECT)-based biosensors, known for their high sensitivity and excellent real-time signal processing capabilities, have demonstrated significant advantages in early diagnosis and continuous pathological monitoring. While both IDDS and OECT technologies have shown promising progress individually, challenges remain in achieving long-term stability, biocompatibility, scalable manufacturing, and system-level integration. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in IDDSs and functional OECT-based biosensors across various application domains. Furthermore, it explores potential future directions for their combined development, focusing on technological convergence, materials innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the design of intelligent control systems. Looking ahead, the seamless integration of OECT-based biosensors with IDDSs holds the potential to create more precise and efficient closed-loop therapeutic platforms, accelerating progress in the fields of personalized and precision medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrochemical Devices and Sensors)
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32 pages, 7994 KB  
Review
Recent Advancements in Smart Hydrogel-Based Materials in Cartilage Tissue Engineering
by Jakob Naranđa, Matej Bračič, Uroš Maver and Teodor Trojner
Materials 2025, 18(11), 2576; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18112576 - 31 May 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4166
Abstract
Cartilage tissue engineering (CTE) is an advancing field focused on developing biomimetic scaffolds to overcome cartilage’s inherently limited self-repair capacity. Smart hydrogels (SHs) have gained prominence among the various scaffold materials due to their ability to modulate cellular behavior through tunable mechanical and [...] Read more.
Cartilage tissue engineering (CTE) is an advancing field focused on developing biomimetic scaffolds to overcome cartilage’s inherently limited self-repair capacity. Smart hydrogels (SHs) have gained prominence among the various scaffold materials due to their ability to modulate cellular behavior through tunable mechanical and biochemical properties. These hydrogels respond dynamically to external stimuli, offering precise control over biological processes and facilitating targeted tissue regeneration. Recent advances in fabrication technologies have enabled the design of SHs with sophisticated architecture, improved mechanical strength, and enhanced biointegration. Key features such as injectability, controlled biodegradability, and stimulus-dependent release of biomolecules make them particularly suitable for regenerative applications. The incorporation of nanoparticles further improves mechanical performance and delivery capability. In addition, shape memory and self-healing properties contribute to the scaffolds’ resilience and adaptability in dynamic physiological environments. An emerging innovation in this area is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and omics-based approaches that enable high-resolution profiling of cellular responses to engineered hydrogels. These data-driven tools support the rational design and optimization of hydrogel systems and allow the development of more effective and personalized scaffolds. The convergence of smart hydrogel technologies with omics insights represents a transformative step in regenerative medicine and offers promising strategies for restoring cartilage function. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomaterials)
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18 pages, 6519 KB  
Article
A Serious Game to Promote Water–Energy–Land–Food–People (WELFP) Nexus Perception and Encourage Pro-Environmental and Pro-Social Urban Agriculture
by Sukanya Sereenonchai and Noppol Arunrat
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 4148; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17094148 - 3 May 2025
Viewed by 1373
Abstract
Urban agriculture is key to sustainable city development, particularly through public engagement with the Water–Energy–Land–Food–People (WELFP) Nexus. This study examines the effectiveness of serious games in enhancing WELFP understanding and promoting pro-environmental and pro-social behaviors. A game-based learning model was developed using the [...] Read more.
Urban agriculture is key to sustainable city development, particularly through public engagement with the Water–Energy–Land–Food–People (WELFP) Nexus. This study examines the effectiveness of serious games in enhancing WELFP understanding and promoting pro-environmental and pro-social behaviors. A game-based learning model was developed using the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) and Easy–Attractive–Social–Timely (EAST) frameworks, along with the Revised New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) Scale. The model simulates real-world urban agriculture challenges to foster participatory decision-making. A survey of 200 urban agriculture practitioners, analyzed via structural equation modeling (SmartPLS 4.0), found that perceived timeliness (PT) and perceived usefulness (PU) significantly influenced both the perceived sustainable livelihood value (PT: p = 0.000; PU: p = 0.006) and users’ attitudes toward the game (PT: p = 0.000; PU: p = 0.038). While enjoyment positively affected attitude (p = 0.002), it negatively impacted perceived value (p = 0.002), revealing a trade-off between fun and practical relevance. Perceived ease of use improved perceived value (p = 0.000) but did not affect attitude, suggesting emotional engagement matters more. Both attitude and perceived value strongly predicted users’ intention to engage with the game. Post-game reflections highlighted the need for cross-sector collaboration, strategic resource use, access to real-time data, and responsive crisis management. Participants also stressed the importance of public awareness, civic responsibility, and volunteerism in advancing community-driven sustainable agriculture. These findings highlight the need to balance engagement and educational depth in game-based learning for sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Sustainable Environmental Education)
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25 pages, 7234 KB  
Review
Advancements and Prospects of pH-Responsive Hydrogels in Biomedicine
by Ke Gao and Ke Xu
Gels 2025, 11(4), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11040293 - 15 Apr 2025
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5575
Abstract
As an intelligent polymer material, pH-sensitive hydrogels exhibit the capability to dynamically sense alterations in ambient pH levels and subsequently initiate corresponding physical or chemical responses, including swelling, contraction, degradation, or ion exchange. Given the significant pH variations inherent in human pathophysiological microenvironments, [...] Read more.
As an intelligent polymer material, pH-sensitive hydrogels exhibit the capability to dynamically sense alterations in ambient pH levels and subsequently initiate corresponding physical or chemical responses, including swelling, contraction, degradation, or ion exchange. Given the significant pH variations inherent in human pathophysiological microenvironments, particularly in tumor tissues, inflammatory lesions, and the gastrointestinal system, these smart materials demonstrate remarkable application potential across diverse domains such as targeted drug delivery systems, regenerative medicine engineering, biosensing, and disease diagnostics. Recent breakthroughs in nanotechnology and precision medicine have substantially propelled advancements in the design and application of pH-responsive hydrogels. This review systematically elaborates on the current research progress and future challenges regarding pH-responsive hydrogels in biomedical applications, with particular emphasis on their stimulus–response mechanisms, fabrication methodologies, multifunctional integration strategies, and application scenarios. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gel Processing and Engineering)
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30 pages, 3304 KB  
Article
From Authenticity to Sustainability: The Role of Authentic Cultural and Consumer Knowledge in Shaping Green Consumerism and Behavioral Intention to Gastronomy in Heritage Restaurants in Hail, Saudi Arabia
by Amany A. M. Bakr, Ehab Rabee Ali, Saad Sulaiman Aljurayyad, Eslam Ahmed Fathy and Amr Mohamed Fouad
Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3530; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083530 - 15 Apr 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4515
Abstract
The present study investigates the association between perceived authenticity (PAU), GCON, and behavioral intention within heritage restaurants in Hail, Saudi Arabia. By integrating cognitive appraisal theory (CAT) and the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) framework, this research explores how authenticity perceptions influence both cultural and gastronomic [...] Read more.
The present study investigates the association between perceived authenticity (PAU), GCON, and behavioral intention within heritage restaurants in Hail, Saudi Arabia. By integrating cognitive appraisal theory (CAT) and the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) framework, this research explores how authenticity perceptions influence both cultural and gastronomic experiences and contribute to sustainable consumption behavior. Also, it investigates the moderating role of consumer knowledge (CKNOW) in enhancing GCON and its subsequent impact on the behavioral intention (BINT) to dine at heritage restaurants. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study first conducted a content analysis on online reviews to identify key attributes that shape authenticity perceptions. Subsequently, Smart PLS software was employed to conduct an analysis of 417 valid customers of heritage restaurants in Hail. The current study aims to investigate the customers of heritage restaurants in Hail, Saudi Arabia. The current findings showed that students formed a significant market share of heritage restaurants in Hail, Saudi Arabia. The findings confirm that perceived authenticity significantly enhances consumers’ cultural and gastronomic experiences, which in turn fosters GCON and strengthens the behavioral intention to visit authentic restaurants. Furthermore, GCON mediates the association between authenticity, cultural experiences, and purchase intention. Consumer knowledge further moderates this relationship, amplifying the positive effect of GCON on behavioral intention. This study contributes to the growing literature on sustainable gastronomy tourism by demonstrating the crucial interplay between authenticity, sustainability, and consumer knowledge in the heritage restaurant sector. It also offers practical recommendations for restaurant managers, policymakers, and tourism marketers to enhance the authentic dining experience while promoting environmentally responsible behavior. By fostering an awareness of cultural and environmental values, heritage restaurants can serve a critical role in advancing sustainable tourism development in Hail and beyond. Full article
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28 pages, 7132 KB  
Review
A Review of the Development of Biopolymer Hydrogel-Based Scaffold Materials for Drug Delivery and Tissue Engineering Applications
by Madhappan Santhamoorthy and Seong-Cheol Kim
Gels 2025, 11(3), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels11030178 - 1 Mar 2025
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3855
Abstract
Biopolymer hydrogel-based scaffold materials have received a lot of interest in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine because of their unique characteristics, which include biocompatibility, biodegradability, and the ability to replicate the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). These hydrogels are three-dimensional biopolymer networks that are [...] Read more.
Biopolymer hydrogel-based scaffold materials have received a lot of interest in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine because of their unique characteristics, which include biocompatibility, biodegradability, and the ability to replicate the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). These hydrogels are three-dimensional biopolymer networks that are highly hydrated and provide a supportive, wet environment conducive to cell growth, migration, and differentiation. They are especially useful in applications involving wound healing, cartilage, bone, and soft tissue regeneration. Natural biopolymers such as collagen, chitosan, hyaluronic acid, and alginate are frequently employed as the foundation for hydrogel fabrication, providing benefits such as low toxicity and improved cell adherence. Despite their potential, biopolymer hydrogel scaffolds have various difficulties that prevent broad clinical implementation. Key difficulties include the challenge of balancing mechanical strength and flexibility to meet the needs of various tissues, managing degradation rates to line up with tissue regeneration, and assuring large-scale manufacturing while retaining scaffold uniformity and quality. Furthermore, fostering appropriate vascularization and cell infiltration in larger tissues remains a significant challenge for optimal tissue integration and function. Future developments in biopolymer hydrogel-based scaffolds are likely to concentrate on addressing these obstacles. Strategies such as the creation of hybrid hydrogels that combine natural and synthetic materials, smart hydrogels with stimulus-responsive features, and 3D bioprinting technologies for accurate scaffold production show significant potential. Furthermore, integrating bioactive compounds and growth factors into hydrogel matrices to promote tissue regeneration is critical for enhancing therapeutic results. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gels in Medicine and Pharmacological Therapies (2nd Edition))
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11 pages, 1091 KB  
Article
4D Printing Self-Sensing and Load-Carrying Smart Components
by Yi Qin, Jianxin Qiao, Shuai Chi, Huichun Tian, Zexu Zhang and He Liu
Materials 2024, 17(23), 5903; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17235903 - 2 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1129
Abstract
In the past decade, 4D printing has received attention in the aerospace, automotive, robotics, and biomedical fields due to its lightweight structure and high productivity. Combining stimulus-responsive materials with 3D printing technology, which enables controllable changes in shape and mechanical properties, is a [...] Read more.
In the past decade, 4D printing has received attention in the aerospace, automotive, robotics, and biomedical fields due to its lightweight structure and high productivity. Combining stimulus-responsive materials with 3D printing technology, which enables controllable changes in shape and mechanical properties, is a new technology for building smart bearing structures. A multilayer smart truss structural component with self-sensing function is designed, and an internal stress calibration strategy is established to better adapt to asymmetric loads. A material system consisting of continuous carbon fibers and polylactic acid was constructed, and an isosceles trapezoidal structure was chosen as the basic configuration of the smart component. The self-inductive properties are described by analyzing the relationship between the pressure applied to the specimen and the change in the specimen’s own resistance. Load-carrying capacity is realized by electrically heating the continuous carbon fibers in the component. Thermal deformation calibrates internal stress and enhances the load-carrying ability of the component over 50%. The experimental results demonstrate that the truss structure designed in this paper has strong self-induction, self-driving ability, and asymmetric load adaptation ability at the same time. This verifies that the 4D-printed smart component can be used as a load-carrying element, which broadens the application scope of smart components. Full article
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22 pages, 3147 KB  
Review
Biocomposite Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering: Materials, Fabrication Techniques and Future Directions
by Naznin Sultana, Anisa Cole and Francine Strachan
Materials 2024, 17(22), 5577; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma17225577 - 15 Nov 2024
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3980
Abstract
Tissue engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines materials, methods, and biological molecules to engineer newly formed tissues to replace or restore functional organs. Biomaterials-based scaffolds play a crucial role in developing new tissue by interacting with human cells. Tissue engineering scaffolds with [...] Read more.
Tissue engineering is an interdisciplinary field that combines materials, methods, and biological molecules to engineer newly formed tissues to replace or restore functional organs. Biomaterials-based scaffolds play a crucial role in developing new tissue by interacting with human cells. Tissue engineering scaffolds with ideal characteristics, namely, nontoxicity, biodegradability, and appropriate mechanical and surface properties, are vital for tissue regeneration applications. However, current biocomposite scaffolds face significant limitations, particularly in achieving structural durability, controlled degradation rates, and effective cellular integration. These qualities are essential for maintaining long-term functionality in vivo. Although commonly utilized biomaterials can provide physical and chemical properties needed for tissue regeneration, inadequate biomimetic properties, as well as insufficient interactions of cells-scaffolds interaction, still need to be improved for the application of tissue engineering in vivo. It is impossible to achieve some essential features using a single material, so combining two or more materials may accomplish the requirements. In order to achieve a proper scaffold design, a suitable fabrication technique and combination of biomaterials with controlled micro or nanostructures are needed to achieve the proper biological responses. This review emphasizes advancements in scaffold durability, biocompatibility, and cellular responsiveness. It focuses on natural and synthetic polymer combinations and innovative fabrication techniques. Developing stimulus-responsive 3D scaffolds is critical, as these scaffolds enhance cell adhesion and promote functional tissue formation while maintaining structural integrity over time. This review also highlights the natural polymers, smart materials, and recent advanced techniques currently used to create emerging scaffolds for tissue regeneration applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Functional Soft Materials—2nd Volume)
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