Search Results (88)

Blockchain is increasingly applied in the agri-food sector to enhance traceability, data integrity, and accountability. However, its broader role in food system sustainability remains insufficiently characterized, particularly when examined against global megatrends shaping future agri-food transitions. This paper investigates how blockchain technology can reinforce sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems under the effect of major global megatrends. A structured literature review of peer-reviewed and industry sources was conducted to identify evidence on blockchain-enabled improvements in transparency, certification, and supply chain coordination. Complementary analysis of a curated dataset of European and international pilot implementations evaluated technological architectures, governance models, and demonstrated performance outcomes. Additionally, stakeholder-based foresight activities and scenarios representing alternative blockchain adoption pathways, developed within the TRUSTyFOOD project (GA: 101060534), were used to examine the interconnection between blockchain adoption and megatrends. Evidence from the literature and pilot cases indicates that blockchain can strengthen product-level traceability and improve verification of sustainability and safety claims. Cross-case analysis also reveals persistent constraints, including heterogeneous technical standards, limited interoperability, high deployment costs for smallholders, and governance risks arising from consortium-led platforms. Blockchain can function as an enabling digital layer for sustainable and resilient food systems and should be embedded in wider, participatory strategies that align digital innovation with long-term sustainability and equity goals in the agri-food sector. Full article

In recent years, the development of new diagnostic technologies, such as tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and next-generation sequencing (NGS), has caused a veritable revolution in the diagnosis of genetic diseases, reducing time, cost, and invasiveness associated with prior diagnostic techniques. While MS/MS laid the foundation for the development of numerous, usually institutionally based, neonatal screening programs, NGS has gained traction in newborn screening (NBS), primarily through pilot projects and private funding across different countries. As a result, the traditional Wilson and Jungner criteria have been supplemented by additional criteria, including considerations of equity and access, in response to emerging technologies. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the global landscape of metabolic screening panels, highlight the major ongoing genomic screening projects, and outline the current models for integrating these two screening systems. Substantial differences exist across countries in the numbers and types of diseases included in national NBS programmes. In this context, Italy represents a prominent case, as its neonatal screening framework has seen significant expansion and development in recent years, reaching a particularly comprehensive metabolic screening panel. Nonetheless, a number of initiatives to incorporate genomic technologies into the NBS pathway are currently underway, primarily involving high-income countries. Nonetheless, unlike metabolomic-based NBS programs, no country has a government-mandated NGS program as first-tier testing for newborns. New evidence is emerging from ongoing models of integration of multi-omics approaches into NBS, including the use of AI and machine learning. Identifying the most appropriate system for this integration to reduce the false-positive and false-negative rates associated with both screening types, ensure more equitable access to screening, and facilitate faster access to treatment may represent a useful and foresightful way to conceptualize NBS in the future. This transitional phase should promote rigorous improvements before full-scale adoption. Full article

Cross-impact analysis is frequently used in scenario-analogous studies to identify critical factors influencing ecological change, strategic planning, technology foresight, resource allocation, risk mitigation, cost optimization, and decision support. Scenarios enable different organizations to comprehend prevailing situations, prepare for probable futures, and mitigate conceivable risks. Unfortunately, cross-impact analysis methods are often criticized for their difficulty in handling complex interactions, cognitive bias, time-intensiveness, heavy reliance on a limited pool of experts, and inconsistency in assigning judgment, which can affect the expected outcomes. This paper introduces a novel method for constructing consistent scenarios that addresses these criticisms and those associated with scenario methods. The method is based on cross-impact analysis and crowdsourcing for constructing consistent scenarios. The cross-impact analysis component of the method is based on advanced impact analysis and cross-impact balance analysis to, respectively, provide a time-efficient reduction in complex interdependent factors and construct consistent scenarios from a set of reduced factors. The crowdsourcing element leverages the cumulative intelligence of a group of experts to help mitigate cognitive bias and transparently give a more inclusive analysis. The method was implemented and validated with a practical case of renewable energy adoption, a vital challenge for socioeconomic progress and climate change resilience. While the method provides a sturdy foundation for writing scenario narratives, the result confirms its robustness for constructing consistent scenarios and suggests that the future of renewable energy adoption can be enhanced through careful cogitation of best-case, base-case, and worst-case scenarios, which include varying states of perceived value, awareness, and perceived support. These findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of how socio-cognitive and institutional factors interact to influence the pace and direction of sustainable energy transitions. Full article

This paper presents a systematic review of energy management strategies (EMSs) for fuel cell hybrid unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It begins by explaining the necessity of hybrid energy systems. This paper then categorizes existing EMSs into three main classes: rule-based, optimization-based, and learning-based. It provides an in-depth analysis of the core principles, technical advantages, and application challenges for each class. The review also traces the evolution of these strategies from experience-dependent methods to data-driven and autonomous learning approaches. A key finding is that future EMSs will not operate as standalone control modules. By addressing the limitations of current studies, this paper identifies four key development trends: multi-objective collaborative optimization, joint energy-task planning, safe deployment from simulation to real-world environments, and high-fidelity dynamic validation. This work aims to offer theoretical guidance and technological foresight for the research and development of next-generation, high-performance, and high-reliability hydrogen-powered UAVs. Full article

Despite notable advances in load forecasting and fault detection, current power system operation and maintenance (O&M) technologies remain fragmented into independent and primarily reactive modules. Load forecasting estimates future demand, whereas fault detection identifies whether abnormal conditions exist in the present state. This paper proposes a unified and proactive Cognitive Digital Twin (CDT) system. Unlike traditional data-driven approaches, the CDT integrates Large Language Models (LLMs) and Knowledge Graphs (KGs) as cognitive cores to enable deeper reasoning and context-aware decision-making. The CDT system not only mirrors the physical grid but also acts as an intelligent O&M engine capable of understanding, reasoning, predicting, and self-diagnosing. The core innovation lies in prediction-based anomaly detection. The system first estimates the expected healthy state of the grid at future time steps and then compares real-time monitoring data against these predictions to identify incipient anomalies. This enables genuine foresight rather than simple reactive detection. By orchestrating advanced analytical modules, including CNN–LSTM hybrid models and optimization algorithms, the CDT supports autonomous O&M operations with transparent and explainable decision-making. These capabilities enhance grid resilience and improve the system’s capacity for self-healing. Full article

Launched in 2013, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was originally devised to link East Asia and Europe through a network of physical and digital infrastructure. This article analyses the BRI’s development in the European context by offering a comparative analysis of 727 BRI and BRI-like projects within 46 European countries from 2005 to 2021. The analysis considers projects’ location, typology, status, and the main enterprises involved in each project. According to our results, there is a “two-speed Europe”. Indeed, while the vast majority of projects are included in the Digital Silk Road (e.g., telecommunication, transfer technology, data centre, 5G, fintech) and are located in North-Western Europe, traditional investments in infrastructure (e.g., ports, roads, railways, SEZ) are concentrated in South-Eastern Europe and the Balkan countries. While North-Western Europe is particularly concerned about cyber security and data protection issues, various South-Eastern European countries look favorably upon the development opportunities offered by the BRI. The BRI is clearly different from the Western approach to development (based on competition and economic liberalism) and integration (based on treaties). The BRI approach—including its platform, leveraging political flexibility, economic pragmatism, ability to mobilize resources, and ability to create synergies between state and business—could take advantage of the flaws of the European integration process. The BRI, with its strengths as well as weaknesses, represents an opportunity for the EU to understand the need for greater economic and political foresight, social cohesion, and economic flexibility to meet the development needs of its member countries. China, too, can draw inspiration from cooperating with EU countries on how to improve the reception of its investment initiatives by focusing on reciprocity, security guarantees, and protection of rights and the environment. Full article

The Australian built environment is pivotal to achieving national net-zero targets, yet progress remains slow due to fragmented policy frameworks, low retrofit adoption, and uneven integration of emerging technologies. Despite these challenges, little research has applied a foresight perspective that both defines reproducible scenario thresholds and provides semi-quantitative comparisons tailored to Australia. This study integrates strategic foresight with international benchmarking to develop four scenarios for 2050: Business as Usual, Accelerated Sustainability, Technological Transformation, and Climate Resilience. Each scenario is underpinned by measurable thresholds for renovation rates, electrification, digital penetration, and low-carbon material uptake, and is evaluated through a scorecard spanning five outcome domains, with sensitivity and stress testing of high-leverage parameters. Findings indicate that an Accelerated Sustainability pathway, driven by deep retrofits of ≥3% annually, whole-life carbon policies, and renewable penetration of at least 70%, delivers the strongest combined performance across emissions reduction, liveability, and resilience. Technological Transformation offers adaptability and service quality but raises concerns over equity and cyber-dependence, while Climate Resilience maximises adaptation capacity yet risks under-delivering on mitigation. The study contributes a reproducible framework and transparent assumptions table to inform policy and industry road mapping, suggesting that a policy-led pathway coupling retrofits, electrification, and digital enablement provides the most balanced route towards a net zero and climate-resilient built environment by 2050. Full article

Generative artificial intelligence (AI), in particular large language models such as ChatGPT, have reached public consciousness with a wide-ranging discussion of their capabilities and suitability for use in various professions. Following the printing press and the internet, generative AI language models are the third transformative technological invention, with truly cross-sectoral impact on knowledge transmission and knowledge generation. While the printing press allowed for the transmission of knowledge that is independent of the physical presence of the knowledge holder, with publishers emerging as gatekeepers, the internet added levels of democratization, allowing anyone to publish, along with global immediacy. The development of social media resulted in an increased fragmentation and tribalization in online communities regarding their ways of knowing, resulting in the propagation of alternative truths that resonate in echo chambers. It is against this background that generative AI language models have entered public consciousness. Using the strategic foresight methodology, this paper will examine the proposition that the age of generative AI will emerge as an age of public ignorance. Full article

The burgeoning economic relationship between Türkiye and Poland, marked by a targeted $10 billion trade volume, has catalyzed significant Turkish engagement in the Polish construction sector. Ranked second globally in international contracting, Turkish firms are increasingly undertaking complex infrastructure projects in Poland, making it a critical European market to analyze. This study develops a comprehensive framework to identify and evaluate the sources of sustainable competitive advantage for Turkish contractors operating in this dynamic environment. The research adopts a qualitative, single-case study methodology, centered on the extensive project portfolio of a leading Turkish firm in Poland. The analytical approach is twofold. First, it employs Porter’s Diamond Framework to deconstruct the existing competitive advantages, revealing a shift from traditional low-cost models to a sophisticated synergy of superior labor management capabilities, strategic local partnerships, and expertise in complex project delivery. These strengths are shown to align directly with Poland’s critical needs, particularly its skilled labor shortage and ambitious infrastructure agenda. Second, a Foresight Analysis is conducted to map plausible future scenarios through 2035, addressing key uncertainties such as geopolitical shifts and the pace of technological adoption. The findings demonstrate that the sustained success of Turkish contractors hinges on their ability to deliver targeted value. The study concludes by proposing a set of “no-regrets” strategies—including accelerated ESG and digital up-skilling, forging deep local partnerships, and developing financial engineering capabilities—designed to secure and enhance their competitive positioning. The results provide an actionable roadmap for industry practitioners and valuable insights for policymakers fostering bilateral economic collaboration. Full article

As the Metaverse continues to evolve as a transformative digital ecosystem, its environmental implications remain insufficiently examined within academic discourse. Despite growing interest in its technological and societal impacts, there is a lack of comprehensive evaluations that synthesize existing knowledge on its sustainability potential. This interdisciplinary narrative review addresses this gap by critically exploring how Metaverse technologies intersect with environmental sustainability across key sectors, including education, healthcare, tourism, e-commerce, manufacturing, and urban development. Employing a narrative review methodology informed by a systematic selection of scholarly and industry sources, the study consolidates current practices, emerging opportunities, and notable trade-offs. While the Metaverse presents promising avenues for reducing material consumption, optimizing urban planning through digital twins, and lowering emissions via virtual alternatives to physical travel, it also raises pressing environmental concerns, particularly related to high energy consumption, short hardware lifespans, and the rebound effects of intensified digital engagement. The findings suggest that environmental sustainability within the Metaverse is not inherent to its virtual nature but hinges on deliberate design, regulatory foresight, and the broader energy systems it depends on. This review offers timely insights for policymakers, technology developers, and sustainability advocates seeking to align immersive digital innovation with ecological responsibility and long-term planetary health. Full article

The power system, which is also one of the most crucial parts of fuel cell cars, marks the biggest distinction between them and conventional automobiles. Fuel cell hybrid power systems are reviewed in this paper along with their current state of research. Three different kinds of fuel cell hybrid power systems—fuel cell–battery, fuel cell–supercapacitor, and fuel cell–battery–supercapacitor—are thoroughly compared and analyzed, and they are systematically explained in the three areas of passenger cars, buses, and heavy duty trucks. Existing fuel cell hybrid systems and energy strategies are systematically reviewed and summarized, including predictive control strategies based on game theory, power allocation strategies, fuzzy control strategies, and adaptive super twisted sliding mode control (ASTSMC) energy management techniques. This study offers recommendations and direction for the future direction of fuel cell hybrid power system research and development. Full article

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), characterized by the integration of advanced digital technologies, is transforming industries globally and significantly impacting leadership practices, particularly in the healthcare sector. As organizations adapt to this digital evolution, the demand for effective leadership becomes increasingly critical. This paper explores Leadership 4.0, a framework that identifies the skills and competencies required for successful leadership in the digital age. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) with qualitative insights gathered through case studies and the Delphi method, involving healthcare leaders, to investigate leadership practices in organizations undergoing digital transformation. Through case studies and literature reviews, the research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the changing leadership landscape, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities presented by digital transformation in healthcare. The findings indicate that effective Leadership 4.0 requires a combination of digital literacy, strategic foresight, and emotional intelligence. Leaders must exhibit adaptability, drive innovation, and foster a culture of continuous learning to navigate the complexities of digital transformation successfully. The study also emphasizes the importance of internal branding as a critical strategy for aligning employees with the organization’s mission and digital vision, thereby fostering collective commitment to transformation objectives. Key challenges include resistance to change and the ongoing need for upskilling, while opportunities lie in leveraging digital innovations to enhance organizational performance. Full article

This paper proposes a sustainable innovation management model (hereinafter MGI) aimed at enhancing sustainability and leveraging open innovation opportunities within the Citrus agro-industrial chain in the Quindío Department, Colombia. The methodology combines surveys, consensus percentages, relevance and congruence indices, and a review of the literature from the last ten years, particularly in the Google Scholar and Scopus databases. A total of 97 documents directly related to innovation management in the citrus sector were reviewed, along with 58 indirect references. Through three questionnaires, 120 variables were identified, categorized into input (53), transformation (36), and output (31) stages. The findings, supported by sector analysis and foresight studies conducted for six regional agro-industrial chains, led to the development of three potential MGI models, one of which was selected for further application. The study highlights several challenges within the citrus value chain, including weak leadership, limited market competitiveness, outdated organizational structures, slow adoption of advanced technologies, and inadequate investment. The proposed MGI, with a focus on sustainable innovation, offers a generic interactive model that presents a dynamic and adaptable solution to drive competitiveness and value creation in the citrus sector. The chain studied requires not only the participation of different interest groups, but also the application of artificial intelligence to close the gaps and allow for sustainable innovation to be generated of sustainable innovation. Full article

Digital academic leadership (DAL) is essential for navigating the complexities of digital transformation in higher education institutions. However, empirical studies on how university leaders perceive and implement these practices remain scarce. This study bridges the critical gap in higher education leadership research by empirically investigating DAL through the lens of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. This study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining surveys and semi-structured interviews with mid-to-senior university administrators in Zhejiang and Guangdong, China, from whom the research identifies four core dimensions of DAL: digital strategic foresight, resource coordination, technology awareness, and culture building. Quantitative analyses reveal significant variations in DAL perceptions across institutional tiers, gender, and disciplinary cluster, while quantitative and qualitative insights both expose contextual challenges and strategic pathways in effective DAL implementation in Chinese universities for organizational goals. The study contributes a framework for theorizing DAL as a situated practice and offers evidence-based strategies for reconciling technological imperatives with localized leadership dynamics in Chinese universities. Full article

Power operates across multiple scales, from physical action to complex social dynamics, and is constrained by fundamental principles. In the social realm, power is shaped by interactions and cognitive capacity: socially-facilitated empowerment enhances an agent’s information-processing ability, either by delegating tasks or leveraging collective resources. This computational advantage expands access to policies and buffers against vulnerabilities, amplifying an individual’s or group’s influence. In AIF, social power emerges from the capacity to attract attention and process information effectively. Our semantic habitat—narratives, ideologies, representations, etc.—functions through attentional scripts that coordinate social behavior. Shared scripts shape power dynamics by structuring collective attention. Speculative scripts serve as cognitive tools for low-risk learning, allowing agents to explore counterfactuals and refine predictive models. However, dominant scripts can reinforce misinformation, echo chambers, and power imbalances by directing collective attention toward self-reinforcing policies. We argue that power through scripts stems not only from associations with influential agents but also from the ability to efficiently process information, creating a feedback loop of increasing influence. This reframes power beyond traditional material and cultural dimensions, towards an informational and computational paradigm—what we term possibilistic power, i.e., the capacity to explore and shape future trajectories. Understanding these mechanisms has critical implications for political organization and technological foresight. Full article