Search Results (6,352)

The continued performance scaling of AI gigafactories requires the development of energy-efficient devices to meet the rapidly growing global demand for AI services. Emerging materials offer promising opportunities to reduce energy consumption in such systems. In this work, we propose an electro-optic microring modulator that exploits a graphene (Gr) and transition-metal dichalcogenide (TMD) interface for phase modulation of data-bit signals. The interface is configured as a capacitor composed of a top Gr layer and a bottom WSe${}_2$ layer, separated by a dielectric Al${}_2$O${}_3$ film. This multilayer stack is integrated onto a silicon (Si) waveguide such that the microring is partially covered, with coverage ratios varying from 10% to 100%. In the design with the lowest power consumption, the device operates at 26.3 GHz and requires an energy of 5.8 fJ/bit under 10% Gr–TMD coverage while occupying an area of only 20 $\mathsf{\mu }$m${}^2$. Moreover, a modulation efficiency of $V_{\pi }L=$ 0.203 V$·$cm and an insertion loss of 6.7 dB are reported for the 10% coverage. The Gr-TMD-based microring modulator can be manufactured with standard fabrication techniques. This work introduces a compact microring modulator designed for dense system integration, supporting high-speed, energy-efficient data modulation and positioning it as a promising solution for sustainable AI gigafactories. Full article

To facilitate the successful achievement of the goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, it is imperative to accelerate the advancement of green technological innovation effectiveness (GTIE). This study aims to synthesize three types of drivers and seven concurrent driving factors of green technological innovation effectiveness identified in existing theories, constructing a multiple concurrent mechanism model for such effectiveness. The fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) method is employed to identify the configurational conditions leading to high green technological innovation effectiveness. Furthermore, the robustness of these configurations is verified through panel decomposition, while Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA) is applied to test the necessity of the factors within these configurations and to conduct further examination. The results reveal that high green technological innovation effectiveness is driven by three types of multiple concurrent mechanisms: the “Demand–Pull and Technology–Push and Porter Effect-Driven” configuration type, the “Demand–Pull & Technology–Push-Driven” type, and the “Demand–Pull & Porter Effect-Driven” type. This paper’s contributions are threefold. First, it investigates the configurational drivers of green technological innovation effectiveness. Second, it uses Necessary Condition Analysis (NCA) to identify necessary conditions within these multiple concurrent effects, deepening insight into the drivers. Third, it reveals three patterns driving green innovation in industries and proposes corresponding sustainable manufacturing policy recommendations. Full article

Flat soda–lime–silicate glass is the dominant glass type used in contemporary buildings. This paper provides a comprehensive and integrated review of the scientific principles and technological processes that underpin its manufacture, processing, and structural performance. The discussion spans the glass transition and the nature of the glassy state; the network structure of soda–lime–silicate glass, with its inherent lack of long-range order; and its physical and mechanical properties, including fracture. The industrial production of flat soda–lime–silicate glass (melting, float-forming, and annealing) and its subsequent processing (thermal tempering, chemical strengthening, and coating) are described in detail, with emphasis on how they influence residual stresses, surface and edge quality, and structural reliability. Environmental considerations and ongoing advances in energy efficiency and decarbonisation are also examined. By linking the fundamentals of glass science to modern structural design standards, particularly the forthcoming Eurocode 10 for glass structures, the article seeks to equip structural engineers with an informed understanding of glass as a high-performance material for innovative and sustainable design. Full article

In 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved 44 new drugs, reflecting a slight decrease compared to previous years but maintaining the overall trends in pharmaceutical innovation. Biologics accounted for 25% of approvals, including nine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), two antibody–drug conjugates (ADCs), and one fusion protein, with cancer remaining the primary therapeutic focus. TIDES, comprising three oligonucleotides and one peptide, continued to consolidate their presence in the market, with the three oligonucleotides featuring N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) for liver-targeted delivery. Small molecules dominate the remainder, with a high prevalence of N-aromatic moieties and fluorine atoms present in most of the molecules. Peptide manufacturing and sustainability concerns, including PFAS usage, remain key challenges. Despite these advances, the high cost of innovative therapies limits access, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This report provides a structural and chemical analysis of the newly approved drugs, highlighting trends in molecular design, therapeutic areas, and technological innovations shaping modern drug discovery. Full article

Background: Three-dimensional (3D) printing has been established in pharmaceutical sciences for preparing customized dosage forms with intricate release profiles. However, realizing this potential requires complex design strategies and the careful use of various excipients. This study was designed to evaluate the utility of hypromellose acetate succinate (HPMC-AS) as a singular release-modifying excipient for manufacturing oral solid dosage forms via fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. Methods: The scope of work encompassed comprehensive material characterization, formulation and production of drug-loaded filaments using hot-melt extrusion (HME), subsequent FDM 3D printing of tablet geometries, and in vitro dissolution studies using mebeverine hydrochloride (MebH) as the model drug. Results: Initial HME processing indicated that the HPMC-AS-based filaments were brittle, presenting technical challenges for direct 3D printing. This issue was successfully overcome by incorporating an additional preheating stage into the FDM printing process, which enabled production of the tablets. Dissolution analysis demonstrated that the 3D-printed mebeverine hydrochloride tablets exhibited delayed and sustained-release characteristics. Conclusions: These results confirm the viability of HPMC-AS as a standalone functional excipient in FDM 3D printing to produce tailored, complex drug delivery systems. Full article

Additive manufacturing offers rapid and customizable production, yet conventional plastic-based methods remain energy-intensive and environmentally harmful, often resulting in higher impacts per part than traditional manufacturing. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether upcycled biomaterials, specifically oyster shells, pistachio shells, and clay, could be used as lower-impact alternatives to PLA in 3D printing. The scope included detailed measurement of print parameters for each material and a full life cycle assessment (LCA) of the printed elements, covering printer manufacturing, raw material extraction, transport, operation, and end of life. The results show that ambient-temperature extrusion of these upcycled biomaterials can reduce energy consumption by up to 89% and overall environmental impact by up to 94% (as measured by ReCiPe Endpoint H points) compared to PLA printing. These reductions were observed for the Netherlands and EU contexts, where electricity mixes are relatively clean and recycling rates are high; even greater improvements were observed for the US. Although the printed biomaterial objects exhibit lower mechanical strength, limited waterproofness, and reduced print resolution, they are already suitable for low-load applications such as prototypes and architectural models. Overall, the findings demonstrate that upcycled biomaterial extrusion has strong sustainability potential, outperforming both conventional plastics and bioplastics such as PLA in terms of material impacts and energy use. Continued development of material formulations as well as pre- and post-processing techniques could further expand functionality and support the broader adoption of low-impact 3D printing across a wide range of applications. Full article

Spray-induced gene silencing (SIGS) represents a transformative paradigm in sustainable pest management, utilizing the exogenous application of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to achieve sequence-specific silencing of essential genes in arthropod pests. Unlike transgenic approaches, sprayable RNA interference (RNAi) biopesticides offer superior versatility across crop systems, flexible application timing, and a more favorable regulatory and public acceptance profile. The 2023 U.S. EPA registration of Ledprona, the first sprayable dsRNA biopesticide targeting Leptinotarsa decemlineata, marks a significant milestone toward the commercialization of non-transformative RNAi technologies. Despite the milestone, large-scale field deployment faces critical bottlenecks, primarily environmental instability, enzymatic degradation by nucleases, and variable cellular uptake across pest taxa. This review critically analyzes the mechanistic basis of spray-applied RNAi and synthesizes the recent technological breakthroughs designed to overcome physiological and environmental barriers. We highlight advanced delivery strategies, including nuclease inhibitor co-application, liposome encapsulation, and nanomaterial-based formulations that enhance persistence on plant foliage and uptake efficiency. Furthermore, we discuss how innovations in microbial fermentation have drastically reduced synthesis costs, rendering industrial-scale production economically viable. Finally, we outline the roadmap for broad adoption, addressing essential factors such as biosafety assessment, environmental fate, resistance management protocols, and the path toward cost-effective manufacturing. Full article

Background: The development of greener synthetic routes to active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is a key challenge in sustainable chemistry. Methods: In this work, we explored the use of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) in the multi-step synthesis of a fluoroquinolone following the Grohe method. Results: Several steps of the synthetic sequence were successfully carried out using DESs, achieving moderate to good yields, while operating under mild reaction conditions and reducing purification requirements. Overall, the use of DESs led to an overall yield of up to 43%. A comprehensive greenness assessment, combining EcoScale scoring and the GSK and CHEM21 solvent selection guides, confirmed the superior sustainability profile of DESs, reflecting their lower toxicity, biodegradability, and reduced energy demands. Conclusions: These findings establish DESs as promising, eco-friendly alternatives to volatile and hazardous organic solvents for the synthesis of quinolone derivatives, offering a valuable step toward more sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing. Full article

Reverse engineering (RE) has been increasingly adopted in metal manufacturing to digitize legacy parts, connect “as-is” geometry to mechanical performance, and enable agile repair and remanufacturing. This review consolidates scan-to-simulation workflows that transform 3D measurement data (optical/laser scanning and X-ray computed tomography) into simulation-ready models for structural assessment and manufacturing decisions, with an explicit focus on sustainability. Key steps are reviewed, from acquisition planning and metrological error sources to point-cloud/mesh processing, CAD/feature reconstruction, and geometry preparation for finite-element analysis (watertightness, defeaturing, meshing strategies, and boundary condition transfer). Special attention is given to uncertainty quantification and the propagation of geometric deviations into stress, stiffness, and fatigue predictions, enabling robust accept/reject and repair/replace choices. Sustainability is addressed through a lightweight reporting framework covering material losses, energy use, rework, and lead time across the scan–model–simulate–manufacture chain, clarifying when digitalization reduces scrap and over-processing. Industrial use cases are discussed for high-value metal components (e.g., molds, turbine blades, and marine/energy parts) where scan-informed simulation supports faster and more reliable decision making. Open challenges are summarized, including benchmark datasets, standardized reporting, automation of feature recognition, and integration with repair process simulation (DED/WAAM) and life-cycle metrics. A checklist is proposed to improve reproducibility and comparability across RE studies. Full article

This study presents the development and first manufacturing realization of the ECOTIRE concept, a modular and sustainable tire system featuring a removable tread mechanically interlocked with a reusable casing. The concept aims to reduce rubber waste and improve recyclability by eliminating adhesive bonding and enabling tread replacement. Building on previous experimental and numerical studies that validated the interlocking performance, this work focuses on producing a scaled prototype using a low-cost molding process, which can serve as the basis for accessible and sustainable manufacturing. VMQ silicone rubber was selected as an eco-friendly material due to its durability, thermal stability, and processing versatility. A custom two-part aluminum mold was designed to replicate the optimized interlocking geometry, enabling accurate casting, curing, and assembly. The resulting prototype achieved precise fit, dimensional uniformity, and easy disassembly, confirming the manufacturing feasibility of the ECOTIRE concept and demonstrating its potential to support circular economy strategies through reduced material waste and extended tire component lifetimes. Full article

The present study describes the ten-year (2014–2024) validation of a Class 100,000ISO 8 qualified air system used in the manufacture of non-sterile pharmaceutical dosage forms in a GMP-certified facility. The lifecycle evaluation included design, installation, qualification, continuous operation, environmental monitoring, cleaning and disinfection verification, and annual third-party validation. The system was assessed for critical parameters, including air renewal rates, airflow directionality, the integrity of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and ultra-low penetration air (ULPA) filters, environmental recovery times, and non-viable particle counts. Particle monitoring focused on 0.5 $\mathsf{\mu }$m and 1.0 $\mathsf{\mu }$m channels within the 0.5–5 $\mathsf{\mu }$m range specified by ISO 14644-1 for ISO 8 areas. The 0.5–1.0 $\mathsf{\mu }$m range was prioritized because it provides higher statistical representativeness for evaluating filter performance and controlling fine particulate dispersion, which is particularly relevant in non-sterile pharmaceutical production, while larger particles (>5 $\mathsf{\mu }$m) are more critical in aseptic processes. The influence of personnel and air exchange rates on cleanliness was also assessed during the final years of the study. Results demonstrate that continuous, systematic validation ensures the controlled environmental conditions required for pharmaceutical production and supports the sustained quality and safety of the finished products. This study provides a technical reference for engineers, pharmacists, and quality professionals involved in cleanroom design, qualification, and regulatory compliance. Full article

In the context of the ongoing digital revolution in manufacturing and the simultaneous advancement toward dual carbon objectives, this study investigates the role of intelligent technological advancements, particularly industrial robotics, in improving firm-level energy efficiency. Utilizing panel data from Chinese listed companies spanning the period 2012–2023, the research assesses the relationship between exposure to industrial robots and corporate energy efficiency metrics. The empirical analysis demonstrates that greater exposure to industry-level robotization substantially boosts corporate energy performance, verifying that intelligent modernization and green transition can be mutually reinforcing. This positive effect is particularly pronounced among superstar firms, in more competitive industries, and for capital-intensive enterprises. Mechanism analysis reveals that, first, robotization processes generate a scale effect that effectively dilutes the fixed energy consumption per unit of product. Second, the diffusion of robots intensifies market competition, creating a competition effect that compels all firms within the industry to optimize costs and management with a focus on energy conservation. This study demonstrates that enhancing human capital within organizations significantly amplifies the beneficial impact of robotic integration on energy efficiency metrics. By providing empirical data from an emerging market context, this research not only elucidates the role of industrial robots but also offers policy-relevant insights for developed economies navigating the concurrent challenges of industrial modernization and environmental sustainability. Full article

Organizational culture is widely recognized as an important contextual factor shaping career development and long-term human resource sustainability. Although prior research has examined organizational culture, career development, and sustainable HRM, these constructs have often been studied separately and predominantly within Western contexts. This study addresses this gap by analyzing their interrelationships within a transitional economy. Grounded in sustainable human resource management and sustainable careers perspectives, the study examines how organizational culture typologies influence career development and HR sustainability. Career development is operationalized through organizational career growth and career competences. Survey data were collected from 542 employees across 23 IT and manufacturing companies in Serbia and analyzed using factor analysis and multiple regression. The findings show that organizational culture significantly shapes career growth opportunities and career competences and is also directly related to HR sustainability. Person-oriented cultures are associated with more favorable career development conditions and higher levels of HR sustainability, while power- and role-oriented cultures are linked to weaker outcomes. Career growth and career competences further emerge as key mechanisms supporting long-term workforce sustainability. This study contributes to the literature by integrating organizational culture, career development, and HR sustainability into a single analytical framework within a transitional economy context and provides practical insights for managers aiming to foster sustainable careers and long-term HR sustainability. Full article

The sustained interest in efficient, low-cost, and straightforward-to-manufacture lasers has prompted intense research into organic semiconductor laser emitter materials in recent decades. The main focus of this research is determining the optical gains and losses of amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) in order to describe materials by their amplification signature. A method that has been used for decades as the standard technique for determining gain characteristics is the variable-stripe-length (VSL) method. The success of the VSL method has led to the development of further measurement techniques. These techniques provide a detailed insight into the nature of optical amplification. One such method is the scattered emission profile (SEP) method. In this study, we present an extension of the SEP method, the Diffracted Emission Profile (DEP) method. The DEP method is based on the detection of ASE by partial decoupling of waveguide modes diffracted by a one-dimensional grating integrated into a planar waveguide. Diffraction causes a proportion of the intensity to exit the waveguide, transferring the growth and decay process of the waveguide mode to the transverse mode profile of the diffracted mode. In the present article, an approach to determine the amplification signature of an organic copolymer is presented, utilizing partial decoupled radiation. Full article

Achieving food and nutrition security remains a significant challenge for small-scale farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, indigenous vegetables offer a promising solution to this challenge. This systematic review used four databases and retrieved 38 studies published over the past 20 years for synthesis. These studies highlight the growing importance of indigenous vegetables grown in home gardens as a sustainable solution to improve livelihoods and dietary diversity. Indigenous vegetables are well-suited to local conditions, nutritionally rich, and were associated with improved household food availability and income. However, farmers face various risks, including environmental, technological, economic, institutional, and social risks, which threaten their production. To overcome risks, farmers adopt strategies such as training, cooperatives, improved storage, and better seed varieties. Indigenous vegetable cultivation also empowers women and marginalised groups who play key roles in home gardening. Despite their benefits, indigenous vegetables remain overlooked in mainstream markets and policies. The review recommends that policymakers and stakeholders must provide support to promote indigenous vegetables through training and market integration, helping farmers commercialise their produce, while simultaneously enhancing food and nutrition security. Further research is needed to explore the profitability of indigenous vegetable production, analyse supply value chains, and investigate processing and manufacturing opportunities to support their market potential and sustainability. Full article